At the parking lot.

Deirdre hurriedly lifted the hem of her gown as she made her way toward her car. She had no desire to remain at the party any longer now that her task was complete.

Not only did Deirdree have people waiting for her at home, but there was also the man who had been staring at her with intense eyes from under the stage. His gaze reminded her of many things.

Deirdre unlocked her car with her key, but she was taken aback before she could open the door as a pair of hands reached out from behind her. Her arms were suddenly grasped, and she found Brendan's cold face before her as she turned around in astonishment.

Brendan was wearing a well-tailored suit, and his expression was a mix of coldness and conflicting emotions. She could feel the warmth radiating from his palms through the fabric.

However, Deirdre quickly regained her composure. They were not supposed to behave like this, or rather, they were not supposed to be so close to each other now.

"Let go of me!" she