Chapter 382
Time seemed to slow as the liquid splashed across Noah’s crisp white shirt.
“Oh no, Mr. Wall! I—I didn’t mean to!” The waiter’s face turned ghostly pale, his voice frantic as he fumbled for words. “I’m terribly sorry!”
Noah’s expression darkened as he attempted to brush away the deep red stain, only for it to smear further across the white fabric.
Before he could say anything, the event manager rushed over, his tone laced with urgency. “Mr. Wall, I sincerely apologize for this mishap. Please, allow me to escort you to the lounge so you can change.”
Noah exhaled slowly, annoyance flickering across his features. Then, with a brief glance at Sadie, he gave a small nod. “I won’t be long,” he muttered.
Sadie nodded back, watching as he strode away, a strange unease settling in her chest.
“Miss Hudson, what an unexpected pleasure.” A poised, melodic voice drifted through the air.
Sadie turned to see a striking woman approaching, her gown a cascade of shimmering fabric that caught the light with every measured step. There was an effortless grace to her.
Sadie offered a polite smile. “Good evening, Mrs. Lawrence.” It was Leanna, the wife of the Lawrence Group’s CEO.
Leanna’s crimson lips curved slightly, amusement dancing in her eyes. “Your designs left quite the impression on me the last time we met.” She tilted her head slightly, studying Sadie with quiet intrigue. “And now, fate brings us together again. How delightful.”
Sadie met her gaze, poised and composed. “That’s very kind of you to say, Mrs. Lawrence. I appreciate it.”
“Your designs have such a distinct spirit—elegant yet undeniably bold,” Leanna mused, her gaze appraising. “I truly admire young designers with a vision as unique as yours.”
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Sadie smiled politely. “Thank you, Mrs. Lawrence.”
Yet, even as she responded, her mind was elsewhere—on Noah. It was just a simple matter of changing clothes, nothing worth overthinking. And yet, unease curled in her chest.
“I love the Ten Year Promise collection you designed so much,” Leanna continued, tilting her head slightly. “If you’re available, I’d love the opportunity to discuss your creative process in more depth.”
Sadie met her gaze with a composed nod. “Of course, Mrs. Lawrence. It would be an honor.”
The hall shimmered under the golden glow of chandeliers, the hum of lively conversation and the delicate clinking of glasses weaving through the air like a melody.
Eva caught the flicker of unease on Sadie’s face. With a quick sip of champagne, she quipped, “Why is Mr. Wall taking so long to change? Did he lose his way?”
Sadie managed a forced smile. “I doubt it. He’s with the manager.”
Eva placed her glass down and grasped Sadie’s hand. “Let’s go check. Perhaps we can assist!” Her eyes sparkled with playful mischief.
Before Sadie could protest, Eva was already leading her toward the lounge.
Inside, Noah, with his wine-stained shirt removed, revealed a toned chest. He reached for a clean shirt on the hanger.
Just then, the door burst open.
Vivi appeared at the threshold, a look of feigned surprise on her face. “Mr. Wall? What are you doing here?”
Noah paused, frowning slightly. He recognized her—it was Vivi, whom he had met before at the Starlight Gala.
Vivi clasped her hand over her mouth, feigning shock. “Oh! I’m sorry, Mr. Wall, I must have entered the wrong room!”
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