The Love I Begged For Was Never Real novel Chapter 108

Her long hair was swept up into an elegant French twist by the stylist, with a few loose strands perfectly framing the side of her face, flawlessly concealing that new patch of pink skin.

The moment the two stepped onto the red carpet side by side, they instantly drew the gazes of the surrounding media and guests.

Gideon deliberately slowed his pace to match Nora's rhythm in her high heels. He slightly bent his left arm, signaling for her to take it. Nora hesitated for a fraction of a second before looping her hand through the crook of his arm.

As they entered the banquet hall, several corporate executives immediately hurried over to exchange pleasantries.

Gideon navigated the probing questions and flattery with effortless grace, naturally introducing Nora to everyone.

"This is my wife, Nora."

His voice was steady and clear, entirely devoid of evasion or indifference.

The surrounding guests looked surprised before quickly plastering on warm, polite smiles, showering Mrs. Hayes with praises about her outstanding elegance.

Those who had heard rumors of the couple's discord, or even whispers that Nora was about to be kicked to the curb, now watched Gideon's undisguised protective stance and mentally reassessed her true standing.

After the pleasantries, Gideon kept his word. He led Nora straight toward the VIP section on the left side of the hall.

Several blonde, blue-eyed Frenchmen were seated there.

"Pierre, long time no see," Gideon greeted one of the middle-aged men in fluent French as he approached.

This man was Pierre, the newly appointed Executive President of Cartier Asia. He enthusiastically shook hands and hugged Gideon. After exchanging a few familiar words, Gideon stepped aside and introduced Nora to him.

"Pierre, this is my wife, Nora. She's also the lead designer at Professor Arthur Lawrence's studio. She has incredibly unique insights into the heritage setting collection your brand launched last year."

Pierre's eyes lit up, and he immediately extended a hand to Nora.

Nora nodded. "Go ahead, I'll be fine."

She carefully tucked the business card into her clutch and walked over to the dessert table, picking up a cup of warm black tea to soothe her throat.

She felt much lighter than when she had first arrived, the initial aversion to this setting largely dispelled by the successful networking she had just pulled off.

Just as she turned to go admire the jewelry up for auction in the center of the hall, a figure drenched in an overpowering perfume blocked her path.

The newcomer wore a flashy red sequin dress, holding a half-empty glass of champagne. Her chin was tilted up slightly as she scanned Nora up and down with a critical, disdainful look.

Nora recognized the woman instantly.

Seraphina Sterling, the eldest daughter of the Sterling family.