Chapter 144
Chapter 144:
It was the night of the charity gala.
The gown Helena wore was from a sponsor of Nexus TV. It was simple, made from modest material, and the design was understated. Despite its simplicity, the strapless dress accentuated Helena’s elegance and grace, making her appear as radiant as if she were wearing haute couture. Yet, she seemed blissfully unaware of her striking appearance.
Helena glanced briefly at herself in the mirror after dressing and was about to head out.
“Wait p>
The sound of Alden’s voice halted her.
Helena paused and said, “Yes p>
Alden’s face showed concern as he picked up a shawl and placed it over her shoulders.
Helena began to protest, saying, “I don’t need it. I’m quite warm.” However, Alden firmly kept the shawl on her, his tone gentle but earnest. “Please, just wear it p>
Puzzled, Helena watched him lean closer, whispering, “You’re too stunning—I can’t bear the thought of others seeing you this way p>
“What p>
Helena’s laughter broke through her mild irritation as she playfully hit his arm.
Then, she remembered the guest list for the gala.
As one of Cheson’s biggest corporations, the Wilson Group had, of course, been invited.
But only Chadwick’s and Rylan’s names were on the list.
Alden hadn’t made the cut.
Helena couldn’t help feeling sorry for him. Just before heading out, she paused to say, “I won’t be long. I’ll try to chat with that mysterious CEO while I’m there. Once I complete my task for the station, I’ll come straight back to keep you company p>
Alden blinked, caught off guard.
Then it clicked. She was genuinely worried about him.
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That thought made him smile, even if just a little.
He pulled her into a tight hug, holding her close for a second before letting go.
As soon as Helena stepped out, the softness in his eyes disappeared. He picked up his phone and dialed Dorian. His voice was ice-cold. “Start the plan p>
At the gala, Helena arrived right on time and quickly spotted Betsey.
She was hanging off the arm of some wealthy businessman, weaving through the crowd like she belonged there. Her smile was too sweet, her champagne glass never empty.
Helena ignored her and asked the Star Wish Investments staff about their CEO instead.
But Betsey approached swiftly with her glass of wine. “Helena, you’re here! Why didn’t you come over to say hello? At these events, I could give you some pointers, seeing as we’re colleagues p>
However, as she got close, Betsey tripped, and her wine splashed across Helena’s dress, leaving a vivid stain.
“You—!” Helena was too shocked to speak.
Betsey clasped her hand over her mouth, feigning shock. “Oh no! I’m so sorry, Helena. It was entirely my fault. How clumsy of me! You’re always so understanding. You won’t make a fuss about this, will you—hey, why are you grabbing me p>
Before Betsey could continue her act, two staff members from Star Wish Investments intervened, firmly escorting her away.
A dignified female staff member then approached Helena. “Ms. Ellis, we’ve arranged another dress for you. Please, this way p>
Reluctant to cause a scene that might reflect poorly on Nexus TV, Helena gratefully accepted the offer.
Once in the changing room, she was surprised to find that the replacement dress was from an exclusive high-end designer’s latest collection.
Helena paused momentarily, uncertain, but with no other clothing options, she slipped into the new gown.
After changing, she expressed her gratitude and inquired again about the CEO.
Helena had little hope of seeing the CEO, given the air of mystery surrounding him.
Surprisingly, the staff member promptly responded, “Ms. Ellis, right this way p>
Stunned by her deferential manner, Helena cautiously followed her to the door of a small lounge.
Upon entering, she encountered a man in a tailcoat and a dark, enigmatic mask. His stature was impressive, his demeanor aloof and authoritative, which briefly made Helena think of Alden.
A quick glance at his ear, noting the absence of any hearing device, put her initial suspicion to rest.
Without a word, the man extended his hand to Helena from across the room. His subtle smile suggested he was enjoying the evening.
Yet, to Helena, the situation felt increasingly peculiar.
Noticing her hesitation, the staff member gently said, “Ms. Ellis, our CEO invites you to dance with him p>
As if on cue, music filled the room, adding to the surreal quality of the moment.
For the sake of Nexus TV’s reputation, Helena reluctantly placed her hand in the CEO’s, maintaining a vigilant stance.
Despite her reservations, the man conducted himself with impeccable manners, keeping his steps graceful and appropriate.
Unexpectedly, Helena became immersed in the flow of the dance; she and her mysterious partner moved in seamless synchronization to the captivating melody.