Unemployed Family? Hidden Tycoons Dote On Her novel Chapter 671

"Alright, everyone—let's settle in. The anniversary celebration is about to begin," the host announced. "If any students or guests are still looking for seats, please find one quickly."

Brielle glanced around, but in the end, she had no choice but to take a seat in the front row.

Sitting there made her completely uneasy. The only people beside her were Hank and the dean's assistant. With no one to talk to, she was practically bored out of her mind.

The more she thought about it, the more irritated she felt. Brielle turned her head and shot a glare straight at Matthew.

Matthew, I seriously can't stand you!

Matthew didn't seem to notice Brielle's silent protest at all.

"Mr. Stewart, was there a particular reason you chose to sit here?" Arabella asked.

"Felt like sitting here," Matthew replied.

Arabella's lips twitched. Well, that's a reason, I guess.

"I see," she said, offering a slight smile. You do you.

Noticing her smile seemed a bit strained, Matthew's eyes darkened slightly. "You don't want me sitting here?"

"Not really." Arabella shrugged. "But honestly, Brielle would've been a better fit in this row."

"Glad you think so," Matthew said.

Arabella blinked. Is that what he got from that?

"Okay, let's count it down—five, four, three, two, one!" The host's enthusiastic voice echoed through the hall as the anniversary event officially kicked off.

The crowd quieted down, and Arabelle didn't say another word.

Following the planned schedule, one activity followed another.

After several speeches and formal remarks, the fun part finally began.

"Whew." Arabella let out a quiet breath.

"What's wrong?" Matthew asked.

"Earlier, Lucas mentioned he wanted me to give a speech as the student representative. I turned him down, but I wasn't totally sure he wouldn't still call me up anyway. Good thing he didn't," Arabella explained.

"From here on out, it's all interactive activities, so I should be in the clear." She looked genuinely relieved.

Then it hit her, and she turned to Matthew in surprise. "How come you didn't have to give a speech?"

With his profile, she figured Hank would've loved to put him on the stage.

"I never confirmed I was coming," Matthew said simply.

"Oh, smart move!"

Don't commit upfront, and you won't get handed any tasks. Even if you show up, they won't spring something on you last minute.

Matthew glanced at her. She looked adorably clueless, and a faint trace of amusement flashed in his eyes.

"Next up—Lucky Rain from Above!" the host announced. "See those giant balloons up near the ceiling?"

"Yeah!" the crowd shouted back, already getting pumped up.

"Wha—really?" The girl's jaw dropped. "You're really giving it to me?"

"Yeah, but there's only one grand prize, so don't expect another. Just try not to charge into this section again, okay?" Arabella added, more gently this time.

The girl accepted the ticket, her face brightening. "Getting the grand prize is more than enough. I'll stay here and help keep people from crowding you guys!"

Arabella smiled. "No need—we'll be safer if we just step to the side."

Then she turned to Matthew. "Let's move toward the edge."

"Okay," Matthew agreed. They stood and made their way to a quieter spot near the side of the venue.

"You all right?" Arabella asked Matthew once they were settled.

Matthew nodded. "I'm fine."

Arabella felt a little more at ease. She looked back toward the lively crowd.

The atmosphere was energetic and loud, filled with laughter and excitement. She couldn't help but smile. "That Lucas... he really knows how to make an event fun."

He'd clearly put a lot of creative thought into the anniversary program.

Matthew looked down at her, a quiet smile touching his lips.

The way she'd stepped in to shield him—protective and graceful all at once.

Something stirred in his chest, a soft, warm feeling spreading inside. Almost without thinking, he reached out and gently tucked a few loose strands of hair behind her ear.