Chapter 4 Join Me at the Banquet

Charlotte settled into her desk, feeling a familiar comfort she hadn't known for years. Alone in the spacious office, she took a moment to admire its layout. The floor-to-ceiling windows were lined with potted plants, a touch Charlotte deeply appreciated. She quickly logged into her work account. Luke had sent her a document for a new design request. Charlotte focused on her work, reviewing the file thoroughly before beginning her sketch. She worked non-stop from morning until late evening, even having her lunch delivered by Lawson. Noticing her office light still on, Luke stopped by and knocked. "You're still here?" "I just wrapped up the design based on the client's brief from your file," Charlotte replied with a smile. "I was just getting ready to leave, and then you walked in." Luke looked at her and said, "You know, the client gave us a week. You don't need to hurry." He couldn't help but admire her dedication. Luke examined the sketch she had made. Charlotte had captured every detail beautifully, showcasing her talent even on a small piece of paper. "I've always worked like this, I prefer to finish things in one go," Charlotte explained, remembering her old work habits. Glancing at his watch, Luke asked, "I'm off to a charity banquet. Would you join me as my date tonight?" Charlotte paused, thinking about her children at home. She didn't immediately accept. "I need to check in at home first." "Of course," Luke replied, stepping out to give her privacy. She called Sofia, and then Andy took the phone. In his usual mature way, he assured Charlotte that he and Lilya were fine and encouraged her to focus on her evening. Reassured about her kids, Charlotte picked up her purse. "Boss, everything's clear on my end." A smile flickered across Luke's face. "Excellent, let's go." Soon, they arrived at the venue of the charity banquet. Lawson was there, holding a set of formal clothes for Charlotte. "You may want to change into this; it was prepared in a hurry. I hope it fits," Luke said. Charlotte was surprised and grateful. She hadn't expected Luke to think of such details. "Thank you, I'll just take a moment to change," she responded, appreciating his thoughtfulness. Luke gave a gentle smile. "No rush." Charlotte was then led to a makeup room set up for the event. Despite Lawson being a man, his makeup expertise was impressive. Charlotte realized that everyone around Luke was exceptional was remarkably skilled. As she looked at her transformed reflection, she remembered attending such events before, but never feeling as radiant as she did now. Lawson, seeing her in the mirror, remarked, "Looks like I did a pretty good job." "You're being humble. It's been ages since I've gotten this dressed up. Thanks," Charlotte said. Lawson gathered his things to leave. "It's all part of the job. You should head to the banquet now." Charlotte, her gown sparkling, stepped out of the room. She instantly caught everyone's eye, with women casting curious glances her way. People murmured, "Who is she?" "I've never seen her before." "She's beautiful. Would love to meet her." Charlotte ignored these comments, not assuming they were about her. Tonight's charity banquet venue was vast, and Charlotte struggled to find Luke in the crowd. Just as she was about to call him, Luke emerged, making his way toward her. "Charlotte," he called out. Seeing him, Charlotte felt a wave of relief. "There you are." Luke motioned for her to link arms with him. "Sorry about tonight's rush. It's also an opportunity for you to meet some important people in our industry." She linked her arm with his, gratefully responding, "Thank you." Charlotte felt nervous because she had never been in a situation like this, attending a function as the plus one of someone she barely knew. The thought of accidentally saying or doing something wrong and becoming the subject of gossip loomed in her mind. Luke sensed her discomfort and leaned in to whisper, "Just keep smiling tonight. Leave the rest to me." Relieved, Charlotte looked up at him, their eyes meeting in a moment of connection. "Okay," she agreed. Since changing into her dress, Charlotte felt the weight of many eyes on her. Unbeknownst to her, Luke was known for not bringing dates to events, which made her presence even more noticeable. She didn't realize that the whispers around them were focused on her, sparked by curiosity about the woman accompanying the usually solitary Luke. Noticing Luke and his plus one not far away, Lorraine discreetly mentioned to Frank that his uncle had brought a female companion. Frank looked in the direction Lorraine indicated, his surprise evident. "He's never been seen with a woman before." Then, Frank caught sight of Luke accompanied by an exceptionally attractive woman. Something about her seemed familiar. Lorraine, intrigued, suggested, "Let's go say hello," and began leading Frank toward them. Upon getting closer, Frank recognized Charlotte. His expression turned uneasy, surprised to see her with his uncle. "Uncle, it's unexpected to see you here," Frank said, trying to mask his discomfort. Luke gave a small nod. "I'm here to introduce my new jewelry designer to our industry friends." Charlotte, meanwhile, had also spotted Frank. On just her second day back in the country, she found herself face-to-face with this jerk. The encounter was as unexpected as it was unwelcome. Lorraine, observant as she was, noticed Charlotte's lingering look toward Frank. However, accustomed to Frank's usual appeal, she assumed Charlotte's attention was just another example of his allure and didn't think much of it, feeling a sense of pride instead. "A new designer?" Frank cast a disparaging glance at Charlotte. "Uncle, be careful. These days, anyone can fabricate their credentials and claim to be a designer." Luke's expression turned cold at Frank's insinuation. "I'm well aware of her talent. In fact, the ring design you admired was her creation. I'll send you her design drafts tomorrow."