As I watched the man approaching, my heart pounded wildly. I had no idea how much he had overheard. 

“Elliot.” 

Nathan’s demeanor shifted in an instant. His previously tense face softened, his tone turning respectful. 

Elliot White walked straight over. His gaze landed on the necklace lying on the ground before shifting to me. “Did you just say you don’t want it anymore?” 

Caught off guard by the question, I hesitated for a moment before nodding. 

Then, Elliot turned to Nathan. “Pick it up and throw it out. Don’t leave trash in my garden.” 

Nathan’s face darkened, but he didn’t dare disobey Elliot’s orders. He picked up the necklace, shot me a long, unreadable look, then turned and left. 

“Thank you, Elliot,” I murmured, unable to meet his eyes. I instinctively took a small step back. 

“It’s nothing.” Elliot didn’t say anything more, but as he looked at me, shivering slightly in the breeze, his brows furrowed. “Go inside. It’s cold out here.” 

I followed behind him, walking slowly back into the grand hall just as the ball was beginning. 

The once lively and boisterous crowd quieted immediately upon seeing Elliot. 

Bianca beamed and hurried over to him. “El, the ball is starting! Will you be my dance partner?” 

Elliot smoothly pulled his arm away from her grasp. “I don’t like dancing.” 

Despite the rejection, Bianca didn’t seem upset. She simply pouted slightly. “Fine, you’re no fun.” 

The music had started, yet no one moved. They were all waiting for Elliot’s signal.