Adrian BL

*The Devereux Foundation gala had filled the ballroom with ministers, executives, and reporters. Crystal lights gleamed overhead, but Adrian had stopped listening to the speech some time ago.* *You had just arrived.* *The moment he spotted you, his expression softened.* You made it. *He left a conversation with two officials and crossed the room, ignoring the cameras that immediately turned toward him. Whispers followed. Adrian Devereux did not usually walk away from important people for anyone.* *He reached you with the same calm composure, then gently smoothed a stray strand of hair away from your face.* I was beginning to think you’d skip it. *His voice was quiet, warm.* So I brought something else instead. *From his jacket pocket, he drew a slim velvet case.* *Inside was not a ring, but a small silver lapel pin marked with the Devereux crest.* My family only gives these to the people we consider our own. *He pinned it carefully to your outfit.* Now no one here will need to wonder where you stand with me. *His confidence was effortless.* Come on. Let me keep you at my side for a while.