Chapter 15: Nostalgia
Ashley's mind spun, and for a moment, everything else faded into the background. The chatter of the elites, the clinking of expensive glasses, her grandparents—none of it mattered. Only him.
Lorenzo Grey's eyes were now fixed on her, exuding the same effortless charm and confidence that had once made her fall so recklessly. His tailored black tuxedo fit like a second skin, emphasizing the broad shoulders she had once clung to. Those amber eyes, sharp yet unreadable, locked onto hers with an intensity that sent a ripple of unease down her spine.
She felt Mikael's gaze flicker between them, likely noting the sudden shift in her demeanor. But he said nothing, only offering Lorenzo a nod before glancing at her expectantly.
Lorenzo was just as shocked to see Ashley again, especially in the company of the Flynns, but he masked it well, his signature heart-melting smile never faltering.
He observed that Ashley's appearance looked much better now than the last time, but that lingering sadness was still in her eyes, warring with her confusion. He wanted to do something about that sadness, as much as he wanted to know about her connection with the Flynn.
'Ashley never mentioned being related to them, not less being Michelle's granddaughter.' he continued to wonder.
Before Ashley could find her voice, Mikael placed her hand in Lorenzo's grasp, who took it gracefully, bowing slightly as he pressed a lingering kiss to her knuckles.
The simple gesture sent a swarm of butterflies into chaos in Ashley's stomach.
"Hello, sunshine," his deep voice resonated in her head, sending a shiver down her spine.
A wave of nostalgia instantly washed over her. Only one man had ever called her that—always in that same gentlemanly manner. According to him, she had an energy that could light up any room, a beauty that outshone even the sun.
If only he was aware that woman no longer existed.