Chapter 129

As more people trickled in, I cleared my throat softly and composed myself, trying to look calm and unbothered as I walked in. That was when I realized that almost everyone had come with a partner. It was rare to see anyone alone. I awkwardly touched the bridge of my nose and scanned the room. Just below the main table, there was a row of reserved seats. One of them had my name on it. Without hesitation, I walked over and took my seat. Around me, hushed whispers quickly filled the air. They thought they were being discreet, but I could hear every word. "Who is she? She's stunning!" "No idea. I've never seen her before." "There's no way I wouldn't have noticed someone this pretty." "Wait—she kind of looks like Elise!" "Elise? As in Jonathan's wife?" "Yeah, I think that's her!" "That's Mrs. Ford? Seriously? She's gorgeous. I thought she'd be some country girl or something." I sat quietly, listening to them whisper among themselves. They assumed I couldn't hear, and I pretend