The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me novel Chapter 434

Riley watched Sebastian's cold, detached performance. Even though she knew it was entirely an act to protect her, a knot of disappointment still tightened in her chest. When their eyes had met moments ago, he had looked away almost instantly. Winona had promised he wouldn't be able to take his eyes off her, but he seemed completely unaffected.

With so many stunning women in the room, he was probably immune to it all by now.

She buried the disappointment and replied with equal politeness. "It's no trouble at all. I really enjoy Winona's company."

Winona chimed in eagerly. "And I love yours!"

That simple declaration smoothed out the rough edges of Riley's mood.

Sebastian looked back at Winona. "Don't wander off too far. It's crowded tonight, so stay safe."

"I know. Go back to your networking, we're leaving." Winona offered Montgomery a quick goodbye and pulled Riley away.

Once they were out of earshot, Winona leaned in and whispered, "He is such a good actor! You have no idea—when he called to ask me to pick you up, he gave me a million frantic instructions to make sure you were taken care of. But look at him now, acting all high and mighty."

The last traces of Riley's disappointment vanished completely. A genuine smile broke across her face. "High and mighty?"

Winona instantly panicked. "Please don't tell him I said that! I only have the guts to trash-talk him behind his back."

Riley's smile widened. "Your secret is safe."

As they were laughing together, Pierce Landon suddenly stepped into their path.

Taking in Riley's breathtaking appearance, a flash of pure awe crossed his eyes. He knew immediately from the exquisite cut and fabric that the gown was vastly expensive. Riley couldn't afford it on her own—Sebastian had bought it for her.

She had demanded to return the dress he sent, yet she happily wore Sebastian's.

Pierce's grip on his wine glass tightened in fury. But remembering his plan for the night, he forced a polite smile. "Good evening, Ms. Spencer. Good evening, Ms. Vance."

Not 'Riley', but 'Ms. Vance'.

Riley was very satisfied with the boundary. "Good evening, Mr. Landon."

Winona didn't bother hiding her disgust. She had zero patience for a cheating jerk and had no intention of making small talk. She tugged on Riley's arm. "Let's go find the dessert table."

"Wait a moment," Riley said, turning back to Pierce. "I brought the dress. It's in my car. Do you want me to get it now?"

"There's no rush. Go enjoy the food with Ms. Spencer. Just text me when you're leaving, and I'll come get it."

Riley nodded, and she and Winona walked away.

Pierce watched her retreating figure, his gaze burning with predatory intent.

Serena hurried over to him. "Can I go talk to Sebastian now?"

She had arrived early just to see him, but Pierce had kept her sidelined all night, claiming the timing wasn't right. She had no idea what he was plotting.

"I'm coming with you," Winona declared instantly. Sebastian had ordered her not to let Riley out of her sight.

The waiter looked at Winona nervously. "You can wait here. I'll just take her up to change, and we'll be right back down."

Winona glared at him. "Cut the crap and lead the way."

Too intimidated to argue, the waiter led them up the stairs to the second floor.

Inside the lounge, he handed Riley a spare gown. "The changing room is right through there."

Riley took the dress and stepped into the adjoining room to change, leaving Winona and the waiter outside.

Evening gowns were notoriously difficult to get out of, so it took her a while.

When she finally emerged, the lounge was entirely empty. Winona and the waiter were both gone.

Confused, she wondered where they had wandered off to. Suddenly, she heard the faint scuff of a shoe behind her. Thinking Winona was playing a prank, she turned around, ready to laugh at her childishness.

But before she could fully turn, a hand clamped a damp cloth violently over her nose and mouth.

A harsh, chemical stench flooded her senses. Panic spiked as she thrashed against her attacker, but a heavy body pinned her down. Within seconds, her vision blackened, and she slumped into unconsciousness.