Chapter 2

By the time I picked up the gift, I was running a bit late. I rushed as fast as I could, but I still lagged behind schedule.

When I pushed open the door to the private VIP dining room, almost everyone was already seated, though dinner hadn't started yet.

The moment I entered, the groups chatting around the long table stood up to greet me.

Chloe sat in the center. Today was her big night. She looked absolutely stunning in a sleek, form-fitting designer gown.

"Charlotte! Over here!"

Seeing me, she immediately patted the empty seat next to hers and waved frantically.

I handed her the gift. She gasped in excitement, and the crowd around us instantly joined in with a chorus of compliments.

I leaned down and gave her a tight hug.

Chloe and I had been best friends for fifteen years, ever since middle school.

Thinking of our history brought a genuine smile to my face.

I don’t know why, but lately, Victor had been on my mind constantly.

He had only been away for three days this time. Before, even when he traveled for weeks, I had never missed him this intensely.

The party was lively. Most of the guests were our mutual friends, though there were a few unfamiliar faces.

During dinner, I excused myself to the restroom. While washing my hands, I heard the running water and voices gossiping outside the stall.

"Who is that girl? Her gift was insane! That custom brand piece easily costs seven figures!"

"That's Charlotte. The heiress of the Christopher family."

"The Christophers are wealthy, sure, but her husband is Victor."

"As in, Franklin Realty?!"

The water stopped, and their voices faded into the hallway.