A warm smile instantly spread across Diana's face as she said, "Oh, James, you're back? I came especially to invite you and Mr. Andersen to the party tonight."
"Really? Mr. Andersen accepted, didn't he?"
"Yes, he said he'll be over in a bit," Diana spoke as she exited the doorway. "I'll wait for you guys to freshen up, okay, handsome?"
James was never too impressed with flashy girls like Diana, yet being a seasoned player in the social scene, James still nodded with a grin. "No problem, this handsome hunk will be out in a minute, ready to rock your night!"
Diana bashfully glared at James. "You're such a flirt!"
James waved at Diana, turned, and entered the room, closing the door.
"I thought I said to wait outside, why are you back in here?" Came the disgruntled voice of Magnus from the bathroom, where he was washing his face, oblivious to the fact that it was not Diana who had entered, but James.
James, sensing some drama must have occurred, casually approached Magnus. "Magnus, who were you expecting to wait outside? What brought that blondie here?"
Drying his face with a towel, Magnus glanced at James in the mirror, sounding unimpressed. "Who knows what's up with her? You couldn’t even remember to shut the door when you left to party! I was sleeping like a baby, and the next thing I knew, she was standing beside me. What's your deal?"
James shrugged. He knew any woman who met Magnus would lose her mind over him. Of course, Natalia was the exception, the only woman who could stand up to Magnus!
"That must've been quite a surprise. Did she take advantage of you?" James squinted, alluding to mischief.
Magnus dried his hands and rapped James' head. "You're overthinking. Let's go, when in Rome, do as the Romans do."
James casually freshened up and followed Magnus out, heading to the banquet hall with Diana to celebrate their arrival. The hall was bustling with well-dressed men and women, raising their glasses in greetings. The atmosphere was harmonious.
Diana respectfully guided Magnus and James through the crowd and onto the red carpeted stage. Their presence immediately attracted the attention of the guests, all curious about this regal and defiant man.
"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm honored to introduce the globally renowned President of Andersen Corporation, Mr. Magnus Andersen. Let's give him a warm welcome," Diana announced from the stage.
The crowd surrounded them, clapping in warm welcome.
Magnus, used to such scenes, looked relaxed and at ease. He was a born leader. The audience did not diminish his aura and natural elegance.
Magnus slightly nodded, feigning flattery. "Lovely Miss Diana, it is I who should be toasting you."
Magnus knew that to find Natalia, he had to start with Diana. He decided to show a little interest in Diana, hoping to coax Natalia's whereabouts out of her.
Diana was instantly flattered. She finished her wine and looked cautiously at Magnus, eager to win his favor.
Being an unattached man in a sea of attractive women, Magnus saw through Diana's little game. He decided to play along, suggesting, "Miss Diana, would you honor me with your company for a moment?"
"Absolutely!" Diana exclaimed with joy, realizing her voice pitched a bit too high. She quickly covered her flushed lips, portraying a shy demeanor. "If you wish to go, I am more than happy to accompany you."
Having said this, Diana, in her slender stiletto heels, sashayed towards the couch by the window.
Magnus reached over and yanked James, who was busy devouring a fruit platter, towards him. "Come on, let's move over there."
"But I'm not done yet, Diana..." James was about to grumble when he noticed William standing beside them. He swiftly changed the topic. "Miss Diana is so gentle and generous, I'd be more than happy to join her."
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