Chapter 35 Partner In Crime

Duke Alexander guided Mia through the gala's elegant ballroom. Mia nervously took in the faces of esteemed guests mingling amidst the soirée. Alexander continued their rounds, seamlessly weaving through the crowd and introducing Mia to influential figures from various fields-business tycoons, renowned artists, and philanthropic leaders. Each introduction was accompanied by a brief exchange of pleasantries and mutual admiration for the gala's charitable cause. ""Lord Alexander!" a sweet voice called out. Alexander and Mia turned their heads to see a beautiful woman adorned in pearls and lace, looking at Alexander with longing in her eyes. "Countess Isabelle!" Alexander greeted graciously, taking her hand and bringing it to his lips: before he turned to Mia, who was watching Isabelle with a soft smile. "Mia, allow me to introduce you to Countess Isabelle," Alexander said with a smile. "Isabelle, this is Mia. She's a very talented and successful interior designer and owner of M.P. Interiors." Countess Isabelle scrutinized Mia from head to toe. "Oh, so you are Mia Peterson. It's a pleasure to meet you, Mia." Mia offered a warm smile. "Thank you, Countess. "Well, I heard Alexander had recommended your work to many in our clite circle," Isabelle said with smugness. "By the way, I have quite a few properties that require renovation. I can give you work." Mia didn't miss the humiliation in Isabelle's tone, but she was accustomed to dealing with arrogant, wealthy clients. She maintained her soft smile and calm demeanor. "It would be a pleasure, Countess. Though we take bookings and schedule according to the next available dates, I will ask my assistant to discuss with you and prioritize assigning the best designer, just because you're Lord Alexander's special guest." Isabelle gritted her teeth. How dare this commoner try to talk back to an elite like her. She wanted to lash out in anger, but then she saw Alexander's stern expression and the challenge in his eyes. She decided it was better to hold her tongue. She ignored Mia completely and turned to face Alexander, giving him the most seductive smile and batting her eyelashes flirtatiously. "Alexander, won't you honor me with a dance?" Isabelle whispered in a honeyed tone. "I beg your pardon, Countess. I have my date and dance partner for tonight." Alexander said sterly, holding Mia's hand. Without sparing a glance at the fuming Isabelle, he led Mia to the dance floor. Mia pursed her lips to suppress a laugh at the furious expression on Isabelle's face. "That was very rude, Lord Alexander," Mia smirked mischievously as they began dancing. She placed one hand on Alexander's shoulder and the other in his palm, while Alexander touched her back lightly and gracefully. "Says the one who gave the badass response to the Countess," Alexander winked, smirking back. Mia gaped at the Duke. "I didn't know a Duke could use such language," she remarked, shaking her head in amusement. "Stay with me longer and you'll find out what else I can do," he responded smugly. "Huh! You sound a lot like me," Mia smiled. She had always craved to have siblings who could be her partners in crime. When she had twins, she was very happy that her children were blessed with what she lacked. "Consider me game, Mia Peterson," Duke replied playfully. "Whenever you need to roast someone, call me. I'm always in," he added, twirling her before pulling her back into the dancing pose. "I guess I found my partner in crime," Mia grinned. "Ditto!" the Duke beamed. Before Mia could savor the light and delightful moment a bit longer, someone suddenly grabbed her arm and pulled her away from the duke. "What the..." Her words caught in her throat when she saw Alessandro standing before her. "You!" she gasped, unable to believe her eyes. How could he be here, and why was he here? Was he also invited? "Miss Peterson, you promised to return, but it's been more than twenty-four hours and you didn't come," Alessandro complained in a sullen tone, ignoring the curious glances directed at them. He was holding Mia tightly in his powerful muscular arms, and she was trying to free herself, feeling awkward about Alessandro hugging her in public. "Let hergo, Alessandrol" Alexander's authoritative voice boomed as he placed a hand on Alessandro's shoulder. Alessandro shrugged off his hand harshly before sending a warning glare. "Stay out of this, Alexander." "You barged into my property without my permission. I can have you thrown out if you don't let her go." Alexander threatened, his voice cold and unwavering. "You can try," Alessandro challenged, but he didn't let go of Mia. Seeing the situation turning stressed, Mia decided to interrupt. "Alexander, I think I should leave," she whispered in an apologetic voice. "What?!" Alexander frowned. "No, why would you leave? If anyone should leave, it's Alessandro Valentino," he declared with a grimace as he stared at the mafia king. Mia looked at Alessandro, trying to appeal to his understanding. "Mr. Valentino, please, can I talk to the Duke for a moment in private?" This time, Alessandro released her. "I am waiting here," he reminded her before Mia walked away with a deep breath. Alexander followed her, still giving Alessandro a warning glare. "Mr. Valentino's health is not well, and I am taking him home. However, I don't want to cause any problems at your fundraising gala," Mia explained when they were in a corner out of carshot. "There won't be any problem. Trust me, I can deal with that crazy man," Alexander assured. "And my mother hasn't come yet. Will you leave without meeting her?" His voice turned sad. "I am sorry. Please convey my apologies to Her Highness with respect. But I need to go," Mia insisted, knowing how dangerous reckless the Italian Don could be. Alexander exhaled a frustrated breath before nodding. Mia gave him a grateful smile for understanding before heading to her suite to collect her things.