The loud crash inside the gala hall echoed like thunder.
Ava's heart jumped as people began to panic. Glass shattered somewhere in the distance, and the elegant music that had filled the room just moments ago stopped abruptly.
Mihir instinctively stepped in front of Ava, his arm slightly extended as if shielding her from danger.
"Stay close," he said firmly.
Ava nodded, her breath quickening.
Guests were whispering nervously, security guards rushing toward the commotion. Through the crowd, Ava saw a man running out of the hall, knocking into people as he tried to escape.
For a moment, their eyes met.
The man's expression was cold… almost threatening.
Ava felt a chill run down her spine.
"Did you see him?" she whispered.
Mihir's jaw tightened.
"Yes."
"Who is he?"
Mihir didn't answer immediately. Instead, he guided Ava toward the balcony again where it was quieter.
Finally, he spoke.
"Someone who doesn't want me alive."
Ava stared at him in shock.
"What?!"
Mihir sighed softly, as if this situation was nothing new to him.
"When you run companies worth billions," he said calmly, "you make powerful enemies."
Ava suddenly realized something terrifying.
If she was part of Mihir's life now… even if it was only for a contract…
Then she might also be part of his danger.
Before she could say anything, Mihir's phone vibrated.
He looked at the screen and frowned.
"It's my security team."
He answered quickly.
"Yes?"
There was silence for a moment.
Then Mihir's expression darkened.
"I see. Increase the guards."
He hung up.
Ava swallowed nervously.
"What happened?"
Mihir looked straight into her eyes.
"That man wasn't alone."
Ava's stomach dropped.
"What do you mean?"
Mihir stepped closer, lowering his voice.
"They've been watching us."
Snowflakes continued to fall outside the balcony.
But suddenly the winter night didn't feel beautiful anymore.
It felt dangerous.
And Ava realized something she hadn't considered before—
This contract marriage wasn't just complicated.
It might be life-threatening.
End of Chapter 3