Chapter 43

Upon their arrival, the dining hall was nearly packed with people, humming with the conversation of those who had come to celebrate the occasion. As soon as Charlene walked in, several visitors were drawn to her gorgeous appearance and refined manner. As they entered the hall, the host, who was well acquainted with Stewart, greeted them warmly. There was a moment of surprised silence as he was about to make small talk with Stewart and Charlene when he noticed newcomers at the entryway. His reaction was echoed by the other visitors, who turned their heads in astonishment and joy upon seeing the new arrivals.

Charlene and Stewart had their backs to the door, so they couldn't see what was causing the disturbance. Curiosity compelled them to turn around, but the host quickly fled to the door and excused himself with a pitying look. "Mr. Henderson, Mr. Harden, Mr. Albright—" Charlene had a suspicion after hearing their names. Her smile wavered a little at what she saw as she turned around. As she had suspected, it was Granger, Moran, and Thorne. However, she was unprepared for Vesta's arrival, dressed in the stunning lavender gown that she had admired in a boutique the day before—a gown valued at over thirty million!

Vesta, who was tall and statuesque, looked sexy and untouchable as she wore the gown with effortless elegance and allure. "Is it unbelievable? These gatherings are rarely attended by Thorne, Granger, and Moran! "And who's that gorgeous woman with them?" "What brought them out tonight?" Is she the lady of Thorne? It's unbelievable how beautiful and intimidating that vibe is. Such fine taste could only be found in a top dog. I would gladly exchange years of my life for a woman like her. However, the woman in the beige outfit captivated me more. Her aura is so brilliant, calm, and pure. Sadly, she has a date, even though she appears to be more uncommon than the boss's girlfriend. Then the muttering broke with an outcry.

"That dress, my goodness! I was astounded when I saw it yesterday! I've heard that a prominent figure commissioned the dress specifically for his girlfriend. It turned out to be Thorne, as I had suspected! Can you believe it? Thirty million. Thirty million? What? That caused Charlene's eyes to soften. Vesta had suspected the garment was Thorne's gift after seeing it on her. Thorne considered thirty million to be a small amount, but the Hawkins family, despite their increasing wealth, couldn't defend such a lavish expenditure for a single occasion. Thorne had obviously given this gesture for Vesta a lot of thought. He intended to bring Vesta to the banquet from the start, as evidenced by the dress being ordered half a month in advance. Stewart was taken aback by the synchronicity, given Thorne's typical lack of interest in social events. Vesta had then been brought along by Thorne. Stewart looked at Charlene in concern. "Charlene..." Charlene shook her head gently and smiled reassuringly. "I'm alright.