My Rise and My Ex's Fall (Chloe and Arthur) novel Chapter 609

A staff member came to fetch them, letting them know dinner was about to begin.

Amber and Chloe made their way to the dining room together.

A long table was spread with an array of regional specialties, accompanied by some tastefully wrapped party favors.

Seated at the head was the guest of honor, Nance, flanked by several local officials. Across from them were places set for Amber and Noah.

Chloe glanced toward where she'd be sitting. As support staff, a spot toward the side was fine—but Eugene's seat was right beside hers.

There were still empty chairs next to some of the officials. Even if Eugene couldn't sit near Nance, he could've been placed closer to the main party. Why did he have to end up next to her? It didn't add up.

When Nance noticed Amber and Chloe enter, he gestured politely for them to take their seats.

Amber leaned in and murmured, "Don't overthink it. It's just dinner. We can slip out once it's done."

Chloe gave a slight nod and moved toward her chair.

Eugene was already settled in the seat beside hers—the one to the side.

The empty chair next to him looked like it had been subtly shifted back, as if someone had adjusted it on purpose. Was it the staff, or had Eugene done it himself?

She pushed the thought aside. For now, all she could do was sit down gracefully, avoid looking his way, and not let him get under her skin. It was just a meal. She'd make an excuse to leave as soon as it was over.

Even dinner turned out to be more drawn-out than she'd expected. The officials had arranged a full culinary experience, complete with a local expert who explained each dish—its origins, preparation, even the proper way to eat it.

Chloe found herself wondering when it would finally end.

She kept her attention away from the man beside her, turning instead toward Nance. That was when she noticed: the pink diamond he always wore was gone.

He'd changed into relaxed casual wear and looked completely at ease—but the diamond was nowhere in sight.

Her expression sobered. This would have been the perfect moment to act, but here she was, stuck next to Eugene. If she got up now, she knew he'd follow within seconds. The man was like shadow.

So shameless.

She'd missed a clean opportunity. According to tomorrow's itinerary, Nance was scheduled to visit a neighboring city for further engagements.

"Thanks," she said.

Amber smiled. "I should be thanking you. Getting to assist you is a real privilege."

Chloe met her eyes and returned a small, understanding smile. Some things didn't need to be said aloud—a look was enough.

"I'll bring the car around and drive you back," Amber offered before heading toward the parking area.

Chloe stood alone for a moment, breathing in the night air. She tilted her head back and looked up. The weather had been clear all day, and now the sky was full of stars—bright, steady, and dazzling.

"Beep." A black sedan pulled up quietly in front of her. She lowered her gaze to find the man in the driver's seat watching her intently.

"Get in, Ms. Bingham," Eugene said. "I've got some time. I can drop you wherever you need to go."

He sat behind the wheel, looking as though he'd been waiting. When they'd said their goodbyes to Nance earlier, Eugene hadn't been anywhere in sight.

"Mr. Rosewood," Chloe replied, keeping her tone politely detached. "You do realize everything you're doing comes across as overly persistent, don't you? At this point, it's basically harassment."