Chapter 61: Spying

"Alright, that should do it," Anna murmured, stepping back to admire her reflection in the full-length mirror of her walk-in closet. A satisfied grin tugged at her lips.

"I still remember how Daniel once said I looked like an old movie actress when I wore a headscarf," she thought, adjusting the fabric with a delicate touch. "Now, I finally see what he meant."

She chuckled softly, securing the white silk scarf adorned with intricate floral patterns. The outfit she had chosen for the day was effortlessly elegant—understated yet refined. Just enough to blend in without drawing unnecessary attention.

But since today’s mission was to infiltrate the Golden Room and spy on William, she couldn’t afford to dress too casually. If she became completely unrecognizable, slipping past unnoticed might be too easy—and she needed to be seen just enough to observe without suspicion.

"I still can’t believe Mrs. Garrel tucked one of her old Chanel suits into my luggage when I was leaving..." Anna sighed, running her fingers over the smooth black-and-white fabric. "Since William wasn’t the one who bought it, he’s probably forgotten all about it by now."

She smirked. Black and white. Perfect for the occasion.

Satisfied with her disguise, Anna grabbed her purse and slipped out of the house, her heart racing with anticipation. The cab was already waiting outside, just as she had arranged. Without hesitation, she climbed in, shutting the door behind her.

"The Golden Room Restaurant, please," she instructed.

The driver gave a brief nod, pulling away from the curb.

As the city blurred past the window, Anna leaned back against the seat, her fingers drumming lightly on her purse.

Alright, William Stark, she thought, eyes gleaming with determination. Let’s see what exactly you’re up to.

***

The moment Anna stepped into the restaurant, a waiter immediately approached her with a courteous smile. "I apologize, Miss," he said smoothly. "The restaurant is fully booked at the moment, but you’re welcome to wait in the lounge until a suitable table becomes available."

Anna returned his smile with polite ease. "Of course. In that case, could you bring me a glass of Pinot Grigio while I wait?"

"Absolutely," the waiter replied before turning away to fulfill her request.

She made her way to the bar, setting her purse gently on the polished counter as her gaze swept over the room.

The waiting lounge had a refined, intimate feel, almost like an extension of the main restaurant but with a more relaxed atmosphere.

A well-stocked bar stretched across one side, though it remained closed at this hour. Plush, inviting couches were arranged around low coffee tables, offering a cozy space for guests willing to linger. A few smaller tables were scattered near the windows, seemingly reserved for those content to sip coffee and chat while they waited.

Despite its elegant setting, the lounge was nearly empty.

I suppose most people don’t have the patience to wait, Anna mused as the waiter returned with her wine. She accepted the glass with a small nod, the pale golden liquid shimmering under the ambient lighting.

Bringing it to her lips, she took a slow sip, allowing the crisp, slightly tart flavor to settle on her tongue. A subtle warmth spread through her as she relaxed into her seat.

But after a few more sips, she realized she had lost track of time. Pulling her phone from her purse, she checked the screen—and her stomach tensed.

Twenty minutes past three.

They should already be here.

Damn.

Clutching her phone to her chest, Anna slid off the barstool and made her way toward the door. She eased it open just enough to peek into the main hall, her sharp eyes scanning the room with quiet urgency.

I don’t see him.

She adjusted her shades, lowering them slightly on the bridge of her nose as if the change in angle might somehow sharpen her vision. But even with the adjustment, there was no sign of William.

No... I don’t think he’s here.

A sigh escaped her lips, disappointment creeping in as she turned to retreat to the waiting lounge. Just as she was about to step back, she caught sight of a passing restaurant attendant and swiftly raised a hand, signaling him to stop.

"Excuse me," she called softly, beckoning him over.

The young man turned with a polite smile. "Is something the matter, Miss?"

Anna hesitated for only a second before asking, "I’m sorry to trouble you, but do you know if Mr. Stark and Mr. Walsh are still expected for lunch?"

The attendant blinked in mild surprise, then quickly consulted the sleek tablet in his hands. His expression shifted into one of sympathy as he looked back at her.

"Oh... were you supposed to meet them here?" He offered an apologetic smile. "I’m really sorry, Miss, but that reservation was canceled this morning."

Anna stiffened, a sharp jolt of irritation flashing through her.

Crap.

She forced a small, awkward smile in return. "Ah... I see. Thank you for letting me know."

With that, she turned away, walking back into the lounge with a deep sigh.

Damn. I didn’t think he’d actually cancel. What a waste of time.

Shaking off her frustration, she returned to the bar to retrieve her purse—when the door to the lounge swung open once more.

Two figures entered, both dressed in sleek black attire.

Anna barely spared them a glance at first, but something about their movements caught her attention. Perhaps it was instinct, or maybe just her ever-present curiosity, but when she turned to get a proper look, her breath hitched.

It’s him. Sebastian Welling.

She couldn’t have been more certain—there was no mistaking that man.

Sebastian Welling.

Marienne’s close friend, a man whose identity had always been wrapped in mystery. He was five years older and frequently involved in questionable dealings, the kind that never quite made it into the public eye but were whispered about in hushed conversations.

Marienne never liked to discuss him, brushing off any questions with vague responses. Yet, his constant presence in her life was enough to prove that their relationship was significant. She kept him close—close enough to maintain a sense of normalcy around others—but always at just enough of a distance to avoid raising suspicions.

And now, of all people, of all places, Anna was seeing him here.

But who was the woman beside him?

Instinctively, she retreated to the farthest corner of the bar, sinking into her seat and angling herself just enough to stay inconspicuous while keeping them within earshot.

Sebastian and his companion approached the bar, placing their drink orders. As the woman reached up and pulled down her black face mask, a scowl twisted her lips.

"I can’t believe she sent you! What the hell is going on?" she hissed, her frustration spilling into the air between them.

Anna’s breath hitched again, her fingers tightening around the stem of her wine glass.

No... it can’t be.

The woman sitting beside Sebastian was none other than Susanne.

The same woman Anna had humiliated during the silent auction.

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