Chapter 27

Inside the banquet hall, Aurora elegantly raised her champagne glass, chatting amiably with a prominent business tycoon. She appeared utterly unaffected by the earlier incident, still radiant and captivating.

“You’re remarkably accomplished, Miss Walton–achieving so much at such a young age. Truly impressive,” the tycoon praised sincerely, his gaze filled with admiration.

Aurora smiled modestly, raising her glass in acknowledgment. “You flatter me. I’m merely doing what needs to be done.”

She took a small sip of champagne, the golden liquid swirling gently within the crystal glass, reflecting the subtle smile at the corners of her eyes. Yet, the warmth in her smile never reached her eyes, only highlighting their profound, midnight depth.

Unfortunately, the elusive CEO of Vanguard Group had not made an appearance tonight after all. A scheduling conflict? What a waste of an evening.

As the banquet neared its end, the air grew heavy with the mingled sweetness of champagne and perfume. Aurora gracefully declined several invitations from interested gentlemen. Just then, Megan approached.

“Aurora, I’m heading out. My driver’s already waiting outside. Did you have fun tonight?” Megan’s voice was soft and sweet like honey.

Aurora arched an eyebrow playfully. “Fun? Just so-so. Didn’t get to see who I wanted to.”

“And who might that be? Don’t tell me it’s Vanguard Group’s mysterious CEO, who’s practically invisible?” Megan covered her mouth, chuckling softly, her eyes sparkling with playful curiosity.

“You know me too well, Megan,” Aurora replied, winking mysteriously before sighing softly. “But sadly, he’s far too busy. It seems I missed my chance tonight."

Megan laughed warmly, gently patting Aurora’s shoulder. “Maybe he just prefers to keep a low profile? Anyway, I won’t keep you. I’ve got to go–bye!”

Aurora watched Megan leave, then took out her phone, preparing to call for a ride when the screen suddenly lit up. It was Lucas calling.

“Hello?”

“I’m waiting in the parking lot.” Lucas’ voice was deep and magnetic, carrying a subtle gentleness that wasn’t easy to detect.

Aurora paused briefly, warmth flooding her chest. She hadn’t expected Lucas to pick her up tonight, leaving her both surprised and pleasantly touched. “What made you come?”

“Mrs. Carter, it’s my duty to bring you home.”

Aurora didn’t ask further.

Chapter 27

After hanging up, she headed straight toward the parking lot. A gentle night breeze brushed through her hair, softly washing away the lingering frustration from earlier. As she reached the parking lot, a black Maybach slowly pulled up beside her.

The moment the car door closed, the world seemed to quiet down, leaving only soft music floating through the cabin. Aurora sank comfortably into the seat, letting out a long sigh. Tonight’s event was more exhausting than she’d anticipated.

“Did you enjoy yourself tonight, Mrs. Carter?” Lucas’ deep voice broke the silence, a faint trace of amusement warming his tone.

Aurora turned to look at him. In the dim glow, Lucas’ profile was sharply defined, his deep eyes glittering softly, as if reflecting scattered starlight. “It was just okay,” she replied lazily, a hint of indifference in her tone. “A bunch of old foxes—fake and polite. If it wasn’t for the project, I wouldn’t have wasted my evening.”

Lucas chuckled softly. “Business is war. Where would you ever find sincerity?”

“True enough.” Aurora raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a confident smile. “But they should’ve known who they were dealing with.”

Lucas affectionately tousled her hair. “Of course, Mrs. Carter, you’re unbeatable.”

Aurora’s mood instantly improved at his words. She briefly recounted the evening’s events, including the unpleasant encounter with Joseph and Judy.

Lucas scoffed lightly. “They’re nothing but clowns. Pay them no mind.”

“Exactly.” Aurora nodded in agreement. “The way Joseph acted, thinking I’d perish without him. He should’ve looked in the mirror first.”

“You…” Lucas shook his head helplessly, his eyes filled with indulgence. “Your tongue really can cut deep.”

“I’m just telling the truth,” Aurora retorted stubbornly. “Am I wrong? I can only blame myself for my past bad judgment.”

Lucas didn’t respond further, simply focusing on driving. The silence filled the car again, broken only by their quiet breathing.

Suddenly, an urgent knocking sound shattered the peaceful atmosphere inside the car. Startled, Aurora quickly turned her head toward the window, only to see Joseph standing outside, his face contorted with rage as he pounded furiously on the glass.

Oh god, Joseph? What was he doing here?

Chapter 28