Chapter 36

Levi.

When I had handed her those documents, her blunt declaration that she didn't need my money had genuinely shocked me.

Looking into her eyes, I saw a fierce, independent spirit that ignited a profound admiration within me. She was determined and defiant—a woman who wasn't intoxicated by my title or my net worth. In my world, that was a first. Every other woman I had known seemed drawn to the gravity of the Ruthford name and wealth, but Kenya stood before me entirely unimpressed by my financial standing. It was stunning, and it only drew me in deeper.

The grand ballroom was alive, teeming with elite guests. The high attendance didn't surprise me, despite the short notice; the curiosity surrounding my sudden marriage was a powerful draw. Exquisitely dressed guests approached me with congratulations, though most couldn't hide their eagerness to meet the woman who had captured my heart. I kept my composure, though inwardly, I was anxious. I hoped Kenya would find it in her heart to grace my side as my wife, despite her reservations about our union.

I couldn't help but dwell on how she had looked earlier—the selection of her attire was a testament to her elegance. The delicate diamond chain I had fastened around her leg was a secret detail that kept my mind reeling. The memory of the intimacy we shared while I put it on was a quiet fire in my veins, making it difficult to focus on the idle chatter of the guests.

The moment she arrived, I felt the change in the room. The atmosphere became charged, and every eye turned toward the entrance.

When our gazes locked across the crowded room, I saw a flash of softness in her eyes, mixed with a hint of uncertainty. My heart soared. She was breathtakingly stunning, and a wave of pride washed over me. Seeing her there, wearing the jewelry I had chosen, I was struck by her radiance.

Then, I noticed her hesitation. As she realized all eyes were on her, her gait faltered slightly, her steps slowing as the pressure of the moment weighed on her. Without a second thought, I crossed the ballroom and reached her side in an instant.

“You look beautiful,” I whispered, my voice grazing her ear as I placed a possessive, supportive hand on her waist.

Guiding her with steady confidence, I led her to greet the guests who had been so anxiously awaiting her arrival.

Cameras clicked incessantly. I could sense the mixed emotions from some of the guests—the subtle prejudices of those who only valued their own social class. It revolted me, but I kept my mask of calm firmly in place. They wouldn't dare voice their opinions; I held too much influence over their interests for them to be anything but polite.

The guest list was a tapestry of dignitaries: top politicians, business moguls, and celebrities. The highlight of the evening was the arrival of the President and the First Lady. I watched Kenya’s eyes widen in amazement; perhaps the scale of my world was finally beginning to settle in.

“Hello William, Grace,” I greeted them warmly.

“Levi, Levi. You never cease to amaze me,” the President teased, shaking my hand firmly.

“I thought you two were close friends, yet you didn't give us even a hint that you were already hitched,” the First Lady added, her smile tender as she turned to Kenya. Grace was a woman of genuine kindness, and I could already see her sincere appreciation for my wife.

The President turned his focus to Kenya. “Mrs. Ruthford, I am pleased to finally meet you. You are a delight for sore eyes. Grace and I watched your performance on television recently, and I must confess, you are a truly gifted dancer.”

“Yes, you are, dear,” the First Lady agreed. “I was entranced by the grace of your movement. I am so happy Levi has finally found a partner to share his life with. William and I had almost given up hope on him ever settling down again.”

“Thank you, Mr. President, and to you, Ma'am. The pleasure is entirely mine,” Kenya responded with poise.

“Please, let’s drop the formality. We are practically family now,” the President insisted with a wave of his hand. “We must arrange a family dinner soon. What do you say, Grace?”

“That would be splendid,” she agreed, looking at her husband with affection.

“Just say when and where, and we’ll be there,” I declared, smiling as I kept a supportive hand on the small of Kenya’s back.

After the President and First Lady departed for another engagement, followed by their security detail, I let out a breath. “Well, that went exceptionally well,” I muttered, guiding Kenya toward the bar for some wine.

“Levi Ruthford!” a deep, familiar voice called out.

I recognized it immediately. When we turned, two of my favorite people were walking toward us. “Henry Macklesfield!” I called back, my excitement genuine.

Henry, my close friend and business associate, approached with his beautiful wife, Kirsten. They were perfectly dressed for the occasion, their style reflecting the high standards Henry and I both shared.

As they reached us, we exchanged warm greetings. After I made the formal introductions, I turned to Kirsten.

“Kirsten, you look absolutely radiant,” I remarked, placing a warm, platonic kiss on her cheek.