Page 27 of Protected By My Playboy Billionaire

“Do you need to use the bathroom?” Adrian asks quietly.

“No, why?” His question catches me by surprise.

“You’re shifting from foot to foot.” It seems that Adrian has noticed my discomfort.

I’m hesitant to admit it, feeling a twinge of embarrassment, but I finally confess, “These shoes are killing me. I need to sit down for a bit.”

Adrian looks down at my feet and then back up at me. “I’ll take you to the bar where you can sit down.”

“Adrian!” Before we can move, a man approaches. They’re coming in waves, all asking to speak to him while I stand and stare. “Oh, it’s wonderful to see you here.” The older gentleman smiles, and wrinkles form around his warm eyes.

“Likewise.” Adrian smiles back at him and extends a hand. This might be the first time I’ve seen him smile at someone at this event.

When he’s done shaking Adrian’s hand, the man turns to me. “Good evening, miss.” He’s also the first person who’s acknowledged me without Adrian introducing me.

“Good evening.” My smile is genuine as I extend my hand, which he takes and brings to his lips.

“Adrian, my boy, could I trouble you for a moment?” He turns to Adrian after releasing my hand. I’m about to reassure Adrian that I’ll be fine on my own when he shakes his head.

“Actually, Mr. Larson, could it wait? Elana needs to sit down, and I was on my way to accompany herto the bar.”

“Of course, son! I’m sure we can find another time to talk. Make sure the young lady is well.” Mr. Larson gives us both an assuring nod.

“It’s okay,” I interject. “It’s no trouble at all. I just need five minutes. Please, don’t let me inconvenience you.”

“I’m not leaving you alone.” Adrian shakes his head once more, and I take a step towards him.

“I’ll be fine, I promise. I’ll just find a seat and rest for a bit. I won’t run away. I couldn’t, even if I wanted to.” I point to my feet with a laugh.

Adrian leans in, his voice soft but firm. “The bar is to the left. Stay there and don’t move. I’ll come find you soon.” His tone leaves no room for argument.

“I won’t. I promise.” I nod and turn to Mr. Larson. “It was nice meeting you, sir.”

“You, too. I’m sorry for stealing him away.” He pats Adrian on the back before taking my hand and shaking it.

Adrian takes a step towards me. “Wait for me until I come find you.” I suck in a breath and nod.

I make my way to the bar area, relieved to find a place to rest my feet, even for a little. I see a group of women standing in the center of the bar, two of them sitting and three of them standing, forming a small circle. Their glasses are raised high, ready for a toast. There’s an empty seat right next to them, and I immediately head towards it.

The plush barstools are built like tall armchairs, and I sink into one with a sigh of relief as the weight is lifted off my aching feet. I fight the urge to take my heels off, reminding myself that this is neither the time nor the place. How the hell are people wearing heels all night?

“Good evening!” The bartender, a young-looking man with a pearly-white smile, approaches me. “Can I get you anything, miss?”

“I—actually, I’m not too sure what I should get.” I’m not a big drinker, not a drinker at all when I think about it.

“Ah, I see. Allow me to surprise you, then?” He offers another toothy smile. “I promise, nothing strong. I’ll make it sweetand tasty.”

“I can’t refuse anything sweet and tasty.” I laugh and lean back into the chair, curious about what he’ll come up with.

“Coming right up.” He gives me a wink and walks off.

As I wait for my mystery drink, it’s not hard to overhear the conversation between the group of women sitting next to me. It’s hard to ignore it.

“Did you see Adrian Morgan tonight?” one of them asks, her tone tinged with excitement, and my ears perk up at the mention of his name.

“Yeah,” another one moans. “I feel like he looks better each time he shows up to an event.”

“He rarely shows up to these things, but when he does, I hear he always takes a girl home.” A third woman giggles. My heart sinks at her words. Always takes a girl home?