Chapter 52

Aurora's POV The crowd roared with a loud ovation as some men escorted Xavier to the stage. He stood upright, a small smile on his face. I could tell he was trying hard not to scowl at the host of the event, who was whispering furtively beside him. I held a giggle as he grunted loudly into the microphone and began his speech. I settled properly into my chair to listen, but my eyes kept roaming his body instead of his face. He wore a black tuxedo and trousers that complemented his black shoes. His composure spoke loudly of royalty, and his scent, a mixture of his favourite body mist and lavender, filled my nostrils. His facial expression as he read figures was golden. I bit my lip as he glanced occasionally at me as if he wanted me to know he was watching. I coughed silently as a waiter a plate of chicken dumplings and a glass of wine in front of me. “Thank you. Can I get a glass of water?” He nodded briefly. “Please, give me a minute.” I smiled as I felt sweat beads gather on my forehe