Rebirth Of The Heiress And The Tycoon's Lover (Alina) novel Chapter 308

**Chapter 308**

**AUTHOR’S POV**

As Alina re-entered the grand ballroom, the air was charged with an electric anticipation. Her father’s voice resonated throughout the expansive hall, booming with pride, “There she is… the woman of the hour!”

A wave of applause cascaded through the crowd, enveloping her like a warm embrace. Guests turned eagerly, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of the spotlight that bathed her in a golden hue once again.

With a graceful smile, Alina lifted her chin, embodying the poise expected of her. Yet beneath her composed exterior, a storm of unease brewed within her. Jessica’s presence loomed in the recesses of her mind, a persistent echo that felt like a warning bell tolling in the distance.

Her father raised his glass high, his voice ringing out, “As many of you know, my daughter will soon begin taking an active role in the Evergreen enterprises. She will oversee our philanthropic branches and manage several major charity programs.”

The applause swelled, cameras clicked, and cheers erupted around her, but Alina felt a disquieting sense of disconnection. Something was amiss. Jessica was plotting something, and a deeper, darker current was stirring beneath the surface.

Still, she maintained her smile, continued to mingle, and played the part she had been groomed for since childhood.

A woman adorned in a sparkling rose gown approached her first, eyes alight with admiration. “My dear, you are absolutely breathtaking. Simply breathtaking.”

“Thank you,” Alina replied, her voice smooth and polite, though her gaze instinctively flickered back toward the entrance, searching.

Another woman chimed in enthusiastically, “You bear such a striking resemblance to Luna! My goodness, it’s almost magical.”

Alina chuckled softly, the sound light and airy. “I’ve heard that quite a bit today,” she said, hoping to divert the conversation.

A man stepped forward, his demeanor confident as he extended his hand. “Miss Evergreen, it’s an honor to meet you. I’m Harold Dane. My wife and I run Dane Pharmaceuticals, and we would love to schedule a meeting with you soon regarding potential charity collaborations.”

“Oh, absolutely,” she responded, her voice brightening. “Just send a request through the Evergreen office. I’d be happy to discuss it.”

A younger woman leaned in, her enthusiasm palpable. “Actually… I wanted to introduce you to my son.” She gestured toward a tall, awkward-looking young man who shuffled forward. “This is Benjamin.”

“Hi,” Benjamin muttered, his voice barely audible.

Alina beamed politely. “Hello, Benjamin. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

The mother’s pride radiated from her. “He’s studying international business! Very responsible, very driven.”

Alina nodded, suppressing a laugh at the young man’s bashfulness. “That’s wonderful,” she said, her mind drifting again. Where are Talia and Damien? Her gaze darted back to the doorway, a flicker of concern tightening her chest.

Just then, another couple swooped in, their admiration palpable.

“You’re even lovelier up close,” the husband declared with a charming smile.

His wife chimed in, “Your mother must be so proud. And your fashion sense… oh! Perfection!”

“Thank you,” Alina replied, straightening her posture, feeling the weight of their gaze. “My stylist is truly amazing.”

“Oh! You absolutely must meet our nephew,” someone else interjected, gripping her elbow with excitement. “He’s single, very handsome, and—”

Alina interjected smoothly, “I’m sure he’s wonderful,” leaning closer and lowering her voice playfully, “but one matchmaking attempt at a time, please.”

Laughter erupted around her, yet her eyes remained fixated on the door, anxiety gnawing at her.

A woman gently touched her arm, her voice warm and reassuring. “Your father’s speech about your new role was so inspiring, dear. You’ll do great things.”

“I hope so,” Alina replied, her smile softening but remaining distant.

A businessman stepped forward, his expression earnest. “Miss Evergreen, would you consider partnering with us for a youth outreach program?”

“Of course. Please send the proposal to our office,” she answered automatically, her mind still wandering.

She continued to scan the doors, her heart tightening with every passing moment. Come on, Talia. Damien. I need you both here.

She laughed at someone’s joke, accepted compliments with grace, and thanked each guest with a smile. She played her role flawlessly.

But deep down, she sensed it—Jessica wasn’t the only threat lurking in the shadows tonight.

Something more sinister was hanging in the air, waiting, creeping ever closer.

Alina could feel it in her bones, a whisper of dread that grew louder.

Just as she lifted a glass to her lips, a sharp screech erupted from the microphone, slicing through the lively chatter of the ballroom.

Everyone flinched, startled by the abrupt noise.

Then, a voice filled the speakers, smooth and mocking, dripping with an unsettling smugness.

Alina recognized that voice all too well.

It was a voice she had hoped would be banished from her life forever.

Jessica.

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