The Cold Surgeon's Contract Bride novel Chapter 298

Therefore, if I didn't state my position right now, I would essentially be embarrassing Leon.

Even if I was currently acting as Ferris's date.

Choosing my words carefully, I replied politely, "You've helped me so much, Dr. Lennox. Of course, I wouldn't hesitate to return the favor."

Before my words had even settled, a joyful look washed over Leon's face, and his voice pitched a little higher. "See, Mom? What did I tell you? Selena is the most loyal friend you'll ever meet."

Mrs. Lennox glanced at Leon, her eyes sweeping over my face before landing on Ferris. She said courteously, "Since Ferris has arrived, let's officially kick off tonight's festivities."

With that single sentence, the topic was finally brushed aside. The host stepped forward to begin the evening's program.

After the drinking, speeches, and Mrs. Lennox's own address, the host invited five couples to the center of the banquet hall to dance the waltz in honor of the birthday girl.

Originally, this had nothing to do with Ferris and me, but perhaps Mrs. Lennox wanted Ferris to enjoy himself, so she suggested, "Ferris, why don't you take Ms. Hayes out for a dance?"

The crystal chandeliers cast fragmented spots of light across the domed ceiling, and waiters carrying champagne wove through the perfumed and elegantly dressed crowd. My fingers wrapped around the stem of my glass felt slightly cold, my silk gloves damp with nervous sweat.

Leon's sudden invitation was like a pebble tossed into a still lake, stirring up undercurrents amid the clinking glasses.

Both Ferris and I were a bit surprised by the suggestion.

Because I knew that dancing was Ferris's weakest point.

The man's knuckles suddenly tightened, his sapphire cufflinks clinking sharply against the rim of his champagne glass.

As he lowered his gaze and coughed lightly, his Adam's apple bobbed against his silk bowtie, and the dark red agate tie pin cast a slender shadow against his neck.

"That's hardly appropriate," a husky voice pressed into my ear as Ferris spoke with absolute resolve. "You know full well that she's my date tonight. If she dances with you, where does that leave me?"

It was an outright rejection.

And his tone was fiercely unyielding.

His words completely choked Leon, leaving him unable to respond.

Leon stared at Ferris blankly, pausing for a full two seconds before finally saying, "I thought you never danced?"

Ferris pursed his lips, shot me another glance, and replied, "It's your mother's birthday. I should at least try to make it an enjoyable evening for her."