With a nod and a smile, Natalia addressed her maid, “It’s not as dramatic as you’re making it out to be. Let’s get to the dinner party, shall we?”
“Seriously, Miss, you’re like an angel fallen from heaven. Absolutely stunning.” The maid continued to shower Natalia with praises and even puffed out her own chest with a sense of pride. It was as if serving such a beautiful woman was her own greatest honor.
Natalia chuckled softly. Her steps were light and swift as she moved forward, and her mood was incredibly upbeat.
The dinner party was held in the back garden of the castle. By the time Natalia and her maid arrived, the venue had already been transformed into a dazzling scene of luxury. Looking at the banner hanging in the semi-open air of the garden, Natalia squinted her eyes, reading each word aloud, "Celebrating Miss Natalia's triumphant win at the design competition?"
A slight twitch appeared at the corner of Natalia's mouth. Who came up with this banner? Was it purposely designed to mock her?
Callum! Must be him!
Moreover, what was the meaning of "triumphant win"? She had fairly participated in the competition, not a boxing match. Could they refrain from using the term "triumphant"?
As Natalia was internally criticizing the banner, she was unaware that all eyes at the venue were focused on her. This place was never short of beautiful women. However, they had never seen someone quite as ethereal as Natalia. Ever since she had woken up, Callum had kept her well-protected and hidden, leaving many completely unaware of her existence. But now, they were truly beholding her beauty.
Her fashionable evening gown clung tightly to her exquisite figure, accentuating her already perfect curves, and making her all the more alluring. The silver-white gown was embroidered with silver threads that shimmered under the lighting, making her appear as though she was cloaked in stardust.
From the moment Natalia emerged, Callum's gaze had not wavered from her. He suddenly regretted having this gown specially made for her. Why did he organize this dinner party? Her beauty was so captivating, it was something that should’ve been treasured and not coveted by others.
She was his!
As Callum was contemplating whether or not he should have Natalia change her dress, the guests he had invited began to arrive.
"Oh, Callum, it's been so long. I thought you'd embarked on another world tour." A tall man approached Callum with open arms and an easy smile.
Callum stepped forward for a hug and playful punch, laughing. “Henry, my old friend, your presence here lights up the room!”
“Cal, you couldn’t even spare a hug for me.” A petulant voice sounded. The speaker was a voluptuous blonde with blue eyes, pouting at Callum.
Callum subtly stepped back, and a forced smile showed on his face. "Ah, Ms. Alice from the McKinney family, welcome."
The blonde's face registered even more displeasure. She tugged at Henry, her brother, and complained, "Henry, look at Cal. He's not sincere at all."
Henry seemed helpless with his sister, placating her with a smile. "Where's the insincerity? He clearly welcomed you."
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