Chapter 346
Chapter 346:
When he saw her walk into the room in the gown he had chosen for her, his lips curved into a small, satisfied smile.
She was breathtaking. In his eyes, Yelena outshone everyone, like the brightest star in the night sky.
No other woman in the hall could even begin to compare.
“Yes, I just got here. Congratulations on the anniversary, by the way,” Yelena said, her tone polite yet restrained, true to her usual nature. Even in the presence of someone like Austin, she avoided unnecessary embellishments.
“Thank you. Hope you enjoy the night,” Austin replied, his warm smile carrying a depth of sincerity.
As the two stood together, they became an instant focal point in the room.
The sharpness of Austin’s tailored suit complemented Yelena’s luminous gown, creating a visual harmony that was impossible to ignore.
Conversations across the hall slowed, and all eyes turned toward them.
For years, Austin had been a mystery to many. His distant demeanor and lack of visible interest in women had fueled endless speculation. But now, his easy posture and unguarded smile directed at Yelena shattered those assumptions. It was clear she held a unique place in his life, and curiosity about their relationship rippled through the crowd.
Callum seized the moment, stepping forward with a calm but deliberate approach. “Mr. Barton, good evening. I’m Callum Harris. It’s an honor to finally meet you,” he said, his voice steady yet carrying a touch of reverence. Austin’s expression shifted slightly, taking on an air of respect. Recognizing Callum as Yelena’s father, he responded with a sincerity that felt genuine.
“Mr. Harris, the pleasure is mine. I’m glad you’re here tonight. I hope you and your family enjoy the celebration p>
𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭 𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓯𝓲𝓻𝓼𝓽: ⳑ𝖺𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝗍𝖊𝗅𝘀．𝖼𝗈𝗺
Callum nodded, momentarily taken aback. Austin Barton, a man who was notoriously difficult to approach, was now engaging him so openly and kindly.
It felt surreal, and he couldn’t help but feel the weight of envious gazes around them.
The murmurs in the room grew louder as the onlookers speculated about what this budding connection could mean for the Harris family.
Bella straightened her shoulders and stepped forward, ready to insert herself into the conversation.
Without hesitation, Austin simply led Yelena gracefully away from the crowd, leaving Bella standing frozen in place.
Monica stood near the edge of the room, her face taut with frustration. She had meticulously planned her look for tonight, expecting to make a jaw-dropping entrance that would leave everyone talking.
But her hopes were dashed the moment she walked in—every pair of eyes, including Austin’s, was fixed on Yelena.
The gown Yelena wore was the final insult. Jealousy twisted in Monica’s chest as she glared daggers at Yelena.
Noticing Monica’s fury, Bella approached with a sly grin. “Monica, you look absolutely stunning tonight p>
Monica shot her an annoyed glance. “Spare me the compliments, Bella. We both know I’ve been completely overshadowed. I might as well be invisible p>
Talking about it only helped to fuel Monica’s anger.
“Don’t let it get to you. I wasn’t lying—you do look amazing. And trust me, the more dazzling Yelena seems now, the more spectacular her downfall will be later.” Bella’s smirk widened as she leaned in conspiratorially.
Monica’s eyebrows arched in interest, her anger momentarily giving way to curiosity. “What do you mean?” she asked, her voice low.
Bella’s confident nod was enough to ease Monica’s frustration. “Just wait and see what happens p>
Monica’s scowl softened into a sly smile. “Alright p>
Meanwhile, the gala had reached its peak. Guests poured in steadily, the room buzzing with energy.