The Billionaire’s Secret Quartet (Thalassa and Elowen) novel Chapter 1403

Thalassa stood in the bustling lobby of the Starhaven International Hotel, feeling a tidal wave of embarrassment crashing over her. She and Hertha had bolted across town to confront Dr. Funke, yet neither of them could pick the man out of a lineup.

Just as Thalassa was about to chalk this up as a lost cause, Hertha – with her larger-than-life personality and a knack for bold moves – leaned in and whispered, "Don’t be disappointed. Watch this."

Before Thalassa could even wonder what Hertha had up her sleeve, Hertha cleared her throat and called out with the confidence of a rockstar, "Dr. Funke, I've admired you for years. I'd love to finally meet you in person, please give me this chance!"

Thalassa's jaw dropped.

The entire room seemed to freeze, every pair of eyes suddenly fixed on them. Thalassa’s heart raced, and she reached out to silence Hertha, but it was too late.

Feeling the weight of the stares from a group of distinguished elder doctors who had been heading towards the elevator, Thalassa forced a smile and chuckled awkwardly. "Sorry, sorry..."

Hertha, oblivious to the social faux pas she had just committed, continued unabashedly, "I admire Dr. Funke for his exceptional talent, his commanding presence, and his... his dashing looks!"

Her tribute was cut short by a rich, hearty laugh from behind them.

"That's the first time I've received such flattering public praise," said a voice filled with mirth.

Both Thalassa and Hertha turned to see a gentleman approaching. He was around five feet five, with salt-and-pepper hair and a bit of a paunch. While others sported sharp suits, he wore a simple navy tunic that hinted at classical charm – a stark contrast to the rest of the crowd.

Beside him stood a tall, rakishly handsome man with an air of roguish charm.