"Let's go. Let me introduce you to everyone." Edward was just threatening him. He didn't attempt to teach Brian a lesson as Daisy's squinted eyes already implied danger. He could dismiss Brian, but not Daisy's feelings.
"Do I have to? I'm not good at forcing a smile." As much as Daisy disliked these social engagements, she tried to present her best self for Edward's sake.
"Please join me. Don't worry. I'll be with you." Edward knew why Daisy was concerned, but he hoped to present a different side of himself, a businessman instead of a familyman. He didn't want to limit himself. He wanted Daisy to know every aspect of his life, his connections, his extraordinary accomplishments, and more. Edward was eager to show to her everything.
"But Brian..." Daisy looked at Brian hesitantly, not knowing what to do. She just saw him after many years; Daisy didn't want to leave him behind or have him complain about her behavior. Besides, she wanted to know everything that had happened to him these years.
"Daisy, I'll be fine by myself. You should go with Edward. We'll have plenty of time to shoot the breeze later." Brian answered while giving a handsome smile. He had seen through Edward already. On the one hand, Edward wanted to flaunt Daisy in front of his friends. On the other hand, he hoped to display his wisdom and sophistication in front of Daisy. Either way, Edward would win praise. He was calculative, thoughtful and determined. Sophistication was embedded in his DNA.
Edward lived up to the status of the business elite, even an outsider like Daisy admired his tactics and ability to overshadow others in casual conversation. Just like Edward said, as long as he was with her, she had nothing to worry about. All she needed to do was to say hello. Then Edward would take over and handle the rest.
Yet being next to such an extraordinary man didn't cheer up Daisy; instead, it worried her, because she wasn't sure whether Edward would get bored and leave her. After all, he was an extremely outstanding man in this world filled with temptations.
Throughout that night, Daisy was focused on Edward rather than the other way around. She kept a close watch on the luscious eyes fixed on Edward. It stung her heart. Edward was the brightest star at the party. That's why she was worried about losing him. That terrifying thought made her quiver unconsciously. She held him closer.
He smelled like strong alcohol. He drank quite a lot. He even gulped up the glasses toasted to her. That made her concerned about his health. Especially because he was drinking on an empty stomach.
"What's the matter? Are you tired?" Edward asked. While conversing with others, Edward kept an eye on Daisy all along. So when he noticed her troubled look, he began to worry.
"No, I'm fine. I just zoned out. I will go to find mom and dad. See you around. Don't drink too much." Daisy curled her lips and gave an apologetic smile. She had to leave for now because Cynthia just waved to her.
"Okay, go. I'll meet you later." Edward figured that Daisy must be bored with all the introductions. She preferred peace and quiet. Besides, she shouldn't stand for too long as she had just recovered from a cold. So Edward let her go instead of compelling her to stand beside him.
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