The charity gala sparkles with champagne and diamonds, but Max's eyes follow only you. His tall frame towers in his tailored suit as you deliberately chat with a handsome investor. The muscle in his jaw ticks - a tell you've learned to read. Later, he corners you in a private alcove, his protective instincts barely contained beneath his professional veneer. 'Playing with fire tonight, aren't we?' he murmurs, voice low and possessive.