The Hidden Empress Stripping Her Secrets After Divorce novel Chapter 335

The line went completely dead for two seconds.

When Henry finally spoke, his entire tone had shifted. "Iris?! You mean *the* Iris? The one who saved Lady Elara? The absolute legend in the global jewelry design circle?"

"Yes."

Henry gasped. "Sebastian, I'm impressed! You actually have the guts to chase a woman in her league? Do you have any idea how famous she is in France? Half the aristocrats here are salivating over her, and she doesn't even give them the time of day. When did you manage to hook up with her?"

A faint smirk tugged at the corner of Sebastian's mouth.

"I haven't yet."

"You haven't?" Henry laughed out loud. "Then you've got your work cut out for you. But I respect the hustle, so I'll help you out. Call me when you get here, and I'll send someone to fetch you."

"Thanks."

"Don't mention it," Henry chuckled. "But let me warn you, Sebastian—this crowd has a million unspoken rules. Getting you inside is one thing, but don't cause a scene."

Sebastian nodded. "I know."

Ending the call, Sebastian turned his gaze back to the window.

The Maybach had merged onto an even more secluded forest road. Dense trees lined both sides, partially obscuring the ancient, majestic architecture hidden within the woods.

Observing his boss's expression in the rearview mirror, Lance couldn't help but ask, "Mr. Thorne, is this Henry guy reliable?"

Sebastian nodded. "We studied together. He's a good friend."

Lance breathed a sigh of relief, then remembered something else. "By the way, Mr. Thorne, my intel also mentioned that tonight's gala isn't just business tycoons. There are some heavy hitters from the European legal world here too. There's a senior lawyer named Jean-Pierre, a former president of The French Bar Association, who holds massive influence. If he could just give Madeline a few pointers, it would be..."

Lance was practically vibrating with excitement.

Sebastian pushed the door open, and a figure practically sprinted toward him.

"Sebastian!"

Henry de Luxembourg grabbed him in a bear hug, slapping his back enthusiastically. He was dressed in a striking burgundy velvet suit, his blond hair slicked back perfectly, and a massive grin plastered across his face. Standing at six-foot-two, with a lean build and striking features, he was the quintessential French aristocrat, exuding an effortless, languid elegance.

"It's been too long!" Henry pulled back, looked him up and down, and clicked his tongue approvingly. "Still looking sharp, I see. Come on, let's head inside."

Sebastian turned to Lance and gave a brief nod. "Wait out here."

"Understood, Mr. Thorne."

Henry threw an arm around Sebastian's shoulders, ready to lead him inside, when suddenly—