ive with a system) Chapter 28
Meru
Evelyn was only two years older than Riley, but acted much older. Riley looked in the mirror. Her makeup was perfect, and the custom–made dress flattered her figure. She wasn’t used to looking this glamorous. But thinking of Alex at the gala. He would be wearing the suit she’d picked for
him…
Riley nodded, straightening her back, and headed out with Evelyn. They entered the gala, finding a spot to relax.
Evelyn quickly joined in the dancing people, leaving Riley to enjoy the food. They were a striking pair- Evelyn vibrant and outgoing, Riley elegant and cool.
Chase approached. “Riley…” He looked at her with pain. Riley had thought that he would never appear again. He seemed truly regretful, but she just stepped back.
There was a commotion behind her. She turned and met Alex’s gaze. His hair was slicked back, revealing his striking features.
Catching her eye, Alex paused slightly. He recovered, extending a hand.“Beautiful lady, may have this dance?”
Alex was a born actor.
“Certainly,” Riley replied, acting like she didn’t know him.
Before Chase could speak, Riley took Alex’s hand. They walked away.
Chase watched them go, finally understanding Riley’s heartbreak in high school. He’d assumed she wouldn’t move on. He was wrong.
I
Riley and Alex were on the dance floor.“Thank you,” she said sincerely, her gaze falling on the necklace he was wearing. It looked good on him.
Alex smiled, “My pleasure, beautiful lady. I’m your knight tonight.”
He tightened his grip on her waist.“The beautiful rose will always attract bugs.” Riley laughed. After the dance, Alex took her to a couple. They smiled at them. The woman resembled Alex; Riley recognized her as his sister Clara. They’d spoken on the phone. The man was Clara’s husband, much younger than Alex had implied.
Clara asked, “Riley? I remember you.”
Riley was surprised, then smiled. Alex introduced them.“This is my sister, Clara, and her husband, David.”
Riley greeted them warmly. She felt a connection to Clara. Alex’s background was similar to Riley’s. His older sister, Clara, was the head of the family. Alex’s depression stemmed from his sister’s sacrifice for the family. She’d even given up a relationship for a business marriage. Clara didn’t tell him about this but he found it out.
He blamed it on himself because he’d used her money and connections. Then, he escaped the family to Hollywood, sending a large portion of his earnings to Clara. The guilt overwhelmed him. Riley had discovered this during their therapy sessions. She’d secretly called Clara, helping Alex resolve his issues. Clara and Alex were very close.
Clara looked at Riley like a sister.
After a while, Clara said, “You young people have fun.”
(Love with a system) Chapter 28
Riley chuckled, because it reminded her of Evelyn. Alex held her hand tightly. “Why are you so happy?” he asked.
Was she happy because she met his family?
Riley looked up, smiling genuinely.
“Secret.”
