Chapter 58
“Mr. Reynolds, such words might scare me away. Then you’d be left without a date tonight,” Sarah replied with a light smile,
though her tone carried a hint of coolness.
Her heart had fluttered at his words several times now, but she understood the vast difference between them.
The car stopped at the hotel entrance. Sarah took Zachary’s arm as they entered the grand ballroom, her heels clicking elegantly
on the marble floor. The space was filled with wine displays, dessert tables, clusters of guests, and circulating waiters.
Long tables lined both sides of the hall, laden with exquisite hors d’oeuvres and various wines, with champagne glasses arranged
in pyramids at the ends.
Women in designer gowns gathered in conversation while men in bespoke suits discussed business.
Luxury permeated everything – only the elite attended Reynolds family events.
Mia spotted them first, running over excitedly. “Zac! Sarah, you’re here!”
The ballroom fell quiet as all eyes turned to them. No one had ever seen Zachary close to any woman, yet here he was with a date.
Lucy nearly crushed her wine glass. “How did that bitch get invited? And as Zachary’s date!” she hissed to her mother.
“What kind of spell has she cast on him? He’s protecting her everywhere, and now brings her to the gala!” her mother added.
Charlotte and James noticed too. The sight of Sarah on Zachary’s arm was striking, especially how radiant she looked. James had
never seen her so captivating.
Charlotte noticed James’s eyes fixed on Sarah and nudged his arm. “James, what are you staring at?”
“Nothing,” James looked away, setting aside his champagne.
Some guests recognized Sarah – East Coast society wasn’t that large.
“Isn’t that James’s ex–wife? How did she become Zachary’s date?”
“She’s certainly clever – barely divorced and already with Zachary…” (2
“Well, look at her – she’s beautiful enough to catch his eye.”
“Of course she’d choose the Reynolds over the Chancers. Talk about trading up!”
“Trading up? What are they implying – that our family isn’t good enough?!” Lucy’s face darkened.
Her mother fumed, “That tramp got lucky. Zachary must be deceived. The Reynolds would never accept a divorced woman with her reputation!”
1/2
Standing behind Lucy, Charlotte felt eyes on her, hearing every word.
Though the Chancers were wealthy, they couldn’t compare to the Reynolds. She studied Zachary – his outstanding presence,
impeccable looks, and status, with the elegant woman by his side.
Her fists clenched, red–rimmed eyes burning with jealousy and ambition. If she were the one beside Zachary, she’d be the one
receiving all this attention and envy….
