Chapter 125

Aurora gave a slight nod and stepped into the room to meet with Grace. Grace’s eyes lit up at the sight of her—Aurora looked absolutely radiant. Her delicate features, touched up just right, gave her an almost ethereal beauty. Grace felt a deep sense of satisfaction.

“Don’t be nervous tonight. You need to perform well during the opening dance.”

Aurora nodded. She understood how important the opening dance was—it was the first step in putting her in the public eye.

“By the way, has Lucas arrived yet?”

Aurora recalled the message Lucas had sent her and explained, “Almost. He’s on the way. He just texted me.”

“Good. You know how we do things in the Walton family. It wouldn’t make sense to have you officially step in without that.”

Aurora nodded again, fully understanding. Then the two of them walked together toward the banquet hall. By the time they stepped out, most of the guests had already arrived. Grace felt a wave of pride and joy in her heart. These people all knew Walton Corporation had secured the Vanguard Group project—she could see right through their intentions.

The moment guests spotted Grace, they hurried over to greet her, all offering words of congratulations. With the project now in Walton’s hands, many of them would be relying on the company in the future. They had come tonight with one goal—to build stronger ties while they could.

Aurora stayed aside and gave them space, choosing not to insert herself into the mingling.

Grace smiled and said, “Thank you, everyone. I appreciate all the kind words. The banquet is about to begin, so I’ll head up to host. Let’s chat more later.”

With that, she stepped onto the stage. Her vintage dress accentuated her gentle elegance, softening her usual commanding presence. She took the mic and announced the evening’s program.

“Thank you all for honoring me with your presence tonight. I appreciate every one of you who came from afar. Without further ado, let’s officially begin tonight’s banquet.”

Once she stepped down, the dance floor opened, and the evening officially began. For the opening dance, Aurora took the floor alongside Tessa and a few well-connected young heirs close to the Walton family. Most of the attendees were young, and the dance was meant to liven up the atmosphere, so they’d chosen a song with a strong beat.

Tessa seized the chance and made her way toward Aurora. She moved effortlessly across the dance floor—every graceful step, every subtle motion drew admiring glances. It only took the smallest gesture for the men around her to start singing her praises. Tessa clenched her jaw so hard her molars ached.

That bitch, always craving the spotlight? Fine, let me help you shine.

Her gaze locked on Aurora’s back. Her skin was smooth and flawless. The thread at the zipper—already snipped by Tessa—would only take a slight tug to bring the strapless gown down. The thought sent a thrill through her. Her eyes lit up with excitement, her body trembling slightly, unable to contain it. Her usually pale face, now flushed from anticipation, even took on a healthier glow.

But Aurora had, of course, noticed Tessa closing in. She just pretended not to and kept swaying to the music. Just as Tessa was about to make her move, Aurora spun on the beat, deliberately bumping into a nearby waiter carrying a tray of wine. Red wine spilled across her gown. Tessa had no choice but to withdraw her hand, her eyes filled with regret.

Her once twisted expression quickly shifted into feigned concern. “Sister, are you alright? You were so careless. Do you want me to help you change?”

Aurora calmly shook her off. “No need. I’ll go on my own.”