Chapter 4: The Hayes's Charity gala 2

I glided through curious onlookers, my jaw tightening as I left the hall.

Olivia was calling out exaggerated apologies to me.

That snake and her tricks! This was exactly what she wanted—for me to retreat in defeat.

I was hardly watching where I was going. Partly because of how well I knew this mansion, but mostly because of the intensity of my rage.

My head was slightly bent, trying to take in the damage done as I turned into a narrow hallway.

Before I knew it, I collided—hard—with the solid muscle of a man.

Losing my balance, I gasped, bracing myself to fall—but I was steadied by the same force I had just crashed into.

I lifted my head, ready to unleash all the anger bubbling inside me on this stranger—but then my eyes met his, and for a second, I was too stunned to speak.

He was tall, with a broad build that filled out his dark suit perfectly.

His jawline was sharp, with eyes so hazel they brought calmness to his otherwise dominant appearance.

He looked so familiar, and yet I was certain I had never seen this handsome stranger before.

Concern spread across his face as he glanced over my crimson-stained gown.

“Easy. Are you alright?” he asked, his voice deep and calming. As he pulled his hand away from my waist, I found myself still wanting the warmth of his strong yet gentle touch.

“Y-yes, I’m fine,” I responded, wishing my voice sounded a bit steadier.

He pulled a white handkerchief from his breast pocket and handed it to me.

“Here. For your dress—it won’t do much, but a blot might help before it dries.”

I took the handkerchief, my fingers slightly grazing his, and for a moment, I forgot my anger, redness rushing to my cheeks.

“Thank you,” I managed, suddenly feeling exposed and vulnerable.

He offered a smile—one that reflected genuine kindness. His gaze lingered on me a second too long, and then just like that, he turned and blended in with the flow of guests moving down the hallway.

Woah. Who is that man? And why does such a small gesture leave such an impact on me?

I stood still for a second, my mind replaying what had just happened. And momentarily, I wished I had asked his name.

A sudden chill pulled me out of my thoughts as I realized the punch was drying on my dress.

Quickly, I entered the restroom. Once inside, it served as a temporary sanctuary as I dabbed at my dress with the handkerchief.

The silk soaked up most of the stain, and what was left was a dim mark, blending into the fabric—hardly noticeable without direct lighting.

I sighed in relief, grateful to the stranger—but I refused to be distracted. I made my way back to the gala.

They took my legacy, my life, and worst of all, the life of my unborn baby.

It would take more than a spilled drink to deter me from executing my revenge.

I stepped back into the hall with my head held high.

My re-entry was less grand than my initial appearance, but I was unfazed as I scanned the room for signs of Walter.

Finally, my eyes settled on him—surrounded by other CEOs, already deep in discussion with my father.

I moved confidently toward them, a bit surprised that Olivia wasn’t by Walter’s side.

Instead, I spotted her across the hall, in conversation with other guests.

She probably didn’t expect me back so soon. Good.

I reached them and tapped my father gently on the shoulder.

“Hello, Daddy. Mind if I join you?” I asked with a smile.

“Of course not. Gentlemen, this is my beautiful daughter, Marilyn. She has a keen interest in our family business.”

The men stared admiringly, but my gaze was fixed on Walter alone.

“Marilyn,” he smirked, eyes flicking down to my dress, searching for the stain. “Resilient, I see. It’s a pleasure to see you again so soon. Please, join us.”

I forced a smile in his direction, feeling nothing but calculated satisfaction.

“Thank you,” I said in a sweet, steady voice.

As I joined the circle, I paid attention to Walter’s every move while they discussed possible investments.

He obviously saw my father as nothing but prey—and me, a potential trophy.

His arrogance annoyed me, but I didn’t let it show. I listened closely, hoping he might unknowingly reveal a weakness.

After some time, he glanced at his watch.

“You’ll have to excuse me, everyone. It’s time for me to give my donation speech. Mr. Sawyer, I’d love to continue this conversation in my office tomorrow. Marilyn can come along, since she’s so keen on learning the business,” he said, shaking hands with my father.

“I would love to. See you tomorrow, Mr. Hayes.” I made sure my voice was sweet and sultry, a flirtatious smile on my face as Walter made his way to the stage.

“We can leave now, dearest! We’ve finally secured a meeting with Mr. Hayes. Tomorrow will be a great success,” my father said, his eagerness triggering something in me as he took my hand and led me out of the hall.

My poor father. He had no idea about the evil plans Walter had for us.

But he was right about one thing—I had achieved my goal of making an impression on Walter tonight. And tomorrow?

The meeting would be a great success.

For me, at least—because being in Walter’s office was the perfect opportunity for me to gather ammo to bring him down.

He wouldn't know what hit him.