Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 78

But to underestimate him would be a mistake—William's charming facade was deceiving.

William, in the midst of mingling with others, suddenly turned his head, his gentle gaze landing on Serena.

Serena quickly averted her eyes.

The unspoken exchange between them didn’t escape Aaron’s notice.

Suppressing the anger simmering beneath his calm exterior, Aaron led Serena over to William. “Mr. Grayson, you arrived quite early.”

William's eyes fell on their intertwined hands, and he offered a slight smile. “It’s my first time in Alderburg; I left early to avoid any mishaps. Miss Sullivan, nice to see you again.”

He extended his hand politely.

Serena naturally reached out her hand.

However, before she could shake William's hand, Aaron intervened.

He clasped William’s hand, his expression neutral, though the veins on the back of his hand were pulsing fiercely. “Mr. Grayson, that's very considerate of you.”

Feeling the sharp pain in his palm, William’s smile didn’t falter.

Though, the veins in his arm were similarly tense.

“Mr. Vance, you flatter me.”

Neither man showed any intention of letting go.

Standing beside them, Serena noticed the silent struggle between the two.

She couldn’t fathom what they were competing over.

Weren’t they supposed to be business partners?

Others around them took notice, casting curious glances their way.

“Uh…” not wanting to become the center of attention, Serena spoke softly, “Shall we start the celebration?”

Finally, the two men snapped back to reality and simultaneously released their grip.

Yet, the intensity in their exchanged glances lingered.

William’s assistant, Finn, wheeled him to his seat, unable to resist whispering, “What’s with Mr. Vance? Why the hostility right from the start?”

William’s gaze drifted to Serena, who Aaron had led to the head of the table.