Chapter 174 The Anniversary Banquet

"All done." Natalie set down the scissors and needle before slipping into the altered dress. In the mirror, the champagne-colored dress was still as dazzling as ever, but the redesign had stripped away some of its formality, adding a touch of modern flair. It now complemented her cool, graceful temperament perfectly, making her look even more striking. "Ms. Lunsford… You're incredible!" the maid blurted out in genuine awe. Natalie smiled faintly, her gaze firm with resolve. Since someone wanted to humiliate her, she was going to appear before everyone shining brighter than ever. "Mommy! You look as pretty as a princess!" Estella came running in, circling Natalie in delight. At that moment, Horatio walked into the room. His eyes became unreadable as a fleeting glimmer of awe crossed them when he saw Natalie so radiantly dressed. He took a few steps toward her, his low, magnetic voice reaching her ears. "You look beautiful." But sharp as he was, he immediately noticed that the d