Chapter 206

The next morning, the waterfront buzzed with excitement. Laura's event, scheduled for 11:00 a.m. in the hotel lobby, would culminate in her selection of a young representative for Yrando—a dream for countless people. Even at 9:00 a.m., the waterfront's outdoor parking lot overflowed with luxury sports cars, testament to the presence of Yrando's elite. Many wealthy scions hoped to be chosen by Laura.

Cameron and Dakota arrived early. Dakota's long, light yellow dress, cinched with a yellow belt, accentuated her figure. Her hair cascaded down her back, and she wore light makeup.

"Dakota, you look gorgeous today," Cameron complimented her.

Dakota blushed, her eyes shyly meeting his before boldly returning his gaze. After yesterday's reflection, she'd decided to be more proactive. Cameron, unaware of her thoughts, smiled warmly and gestured toward the crowded entrance. "Dakota, let's go inside. It's too crowded," he said, ushering her forward.

Most of the crowd at the entrance lacked invitations but were nonetheless enthusiastic about Laura, eager to witness her entrance later.

"Mmm" Dakota murmured, her usual composure subtly faltering. She felt dwarfed by Laura's influence and her own perceived ordinariness beside Cameron.

"What's wrong, Dakota?" Cameron sensed her melancholy.

"Nothing just a little nervous. Let's go," Dakota replied, quickly regaining her composure. She had to work harder, catch up to Cameron, and no longer be a burden.

"Okay," Cameron smiled.

As they approached the VIP entrance, Madison's sharp voice cut through the air. "Cameron, Dakota, what are you doing here?"

They knew instantly who it was.

"Why can't we be here? Even you are," Cameron retorted coldly. Madison stood with her brother, mother, and Archie.

"We received an invitation from Laura. What about you?"

Madison scoffed, looking down at them. "A useless coward and someone from a second-rate family—what qualifications do you have?"

Dakota's face flushed with anger. Insulting her was one thing, but insulting her family was unacceptable.

"What's the matter? Did I say something wrong?" Madison sneered.

"We received an invitation from Laura. Why can't we be here?" Dakota said, controlling her anger.

Madison's incredulity morphed into a mischievous gleam. "Dakota, did you forge an invitation to sneak in? Since when has the bar for this event been set so low?"