Chapter 150
“You look stunning today, Miss Sanders,” Steven complimented sincerely, his tone free of any ulterior motives, just pure
admiration
“Thank you,” Sarah replied with a polite smile.
“Miss Sanders, please get in,” Steven said, holding the car door open for her like a gentleman.
As she walked over, she asked, “Were you sent to pick me up?”
Steven waited for her to settle into the backseat before replying, “Yes, Zachary asked me to. He’s stuck talking with the old man
and couldn’t make it himself.”
Closing the door, Steven got into the driver’s seat.
“Thank you,” Sarah said warmly.
品
At the grand St. Ritz Hotel, the most prestigious banquet hall had been reserved for Zachary’s birthday celebration.
The event was grander than any previous gatherings, including Lucy’s birthday party, which paled in comparison, Being Zachary’s birthday, the guest list consisted of high–profile individuals–some drawn by the Reynolds family’s reputation, others
by Zachary himself.
Unmarried and without a girlfriend, Zachary was considered an eligible bachelor by many influential families. Though whispers
of Sarah’s name had circulated, no one paid them much attention. To them, she was just a passing rumor. Even if there was something between them, she wasn’t yet Mrs. Reynolds, and therefore insignificant in their eyes.
Zachary moved through the crowd, greeting guests with his characteristic composure. Meanwhile, Mia had been unsettled from the moment she entered. The overwhelming number of people and unfamiliar faces stirred her anxiety, triggering memories she couldn’t suppress. Her hands trembled, despite her best efforts to appear calm.
Her gaze repeatedly darted to the entrance, hoping Sarah would arrive soon.
When Sarah finally walked in, Mia rushed toward her, nearly stumbling in the process. Grasping Sarah’s hand tightly, she said.
with a trembling voice, “Sarah, I’m scared.”
Sarah immediately clasped Mia’s hand in hers, setting aside all other concerns. She knew Mia’s sensitivity to crowds could easily
overwhelm her.
“Don’t be afraid. These are just friends of your brother,” Sarah said gently.
“I understand,” Mia replied, but her grip didn’t loosen, and she refused to leave Sarah’s side.
Across the room, Zachary was mid–conversation when he spotted Sarah. His eyes lingered on her for a moment.
She wore a form–fitting black velvet gown that accentuated her curves. The back of the dress featured a lace–up design, revealing
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much of her smooth, fair skin. Beside her, Mia clung to her arm with a timid expression. Sensing something was amiss, Zachary
excused himself and walked over.
“You look stunning tonight, Sasa,” he said as he approached.
“Thank you,” Sarah replied, her tone light.
“Mia seems uneasy. Is she okay?” he asked, concern evident in his voice.
Sarah patted Mia’s shoulder. “She’s a bit overwhelmed by the crowd. She wants to stay close to me.”
“Thank you for looking after her. There’s a quieter spot over there where you two can rest before things officially start,” Zachary said, gesturing toward a corner with desserts and drinks.
Sarah nodded, grateful. She still had the gift she brought for him in her bag but decided it wasn’t the right moment to give it to
him yet. She turned to guide Mia toward the designated spot when Zachary lled out.
“Where’s my gift?”
Caught off guard, Sarah quickly retrieved the wrapped box from her bag. “I hope you like it.”
“Mind if I open it now?”
“Go ahead,” she said with a smile.
Zachary unwrapped the box to reveal a tie clip and a pair of cufflinks. The cufflinks were adorned with small diamonds and sapphires, exquisite yet understated, while the tie clip was a classic design meant to complement them.
“Thank you. I love it,” Zachary said sincerely, slipping the box into his pocket.
Sarah led Mia to the quieter area and handed her some desserts, finally seeing Mia relax as she enjoyed the treats.
