Chapter 211: Pretending
Ella, now dressed in the white lace evening gown, radiated a quiet elegance and grace. The understated sophistication of her attire stood in stark contrast to the bold, extravagant dresses some might wear, offering a unique charm of its own. For this charity event, a more subdued look was appropriate, given that the focus was on raising funds for disaster relief.
Eric’s eyes lingered on her, and his throat tightened slightly as he swallowed, suppressing the mischievous urge that rose within him. Despite himself, he smiled and teased, "Looks like someone changed into a gown, and the princess has turned into a queen."
Ella burst into laughter, her eyes forming crescent moons as she smiled. She proudly took Eric’s arm. "Standing next to someone like you is what really turns the ugly duckling into a queen!"
In high spirits, they left the VIP lounge and made their way to the grand hall on the fifth floor, where the charity event was to take place.
The fifth-floor ballroom was filled with distinguished guests from various sectors of society, all dressed impeccably. The atmosphere was calm and dignified, with the women in attendance carrying themselves with a quiet grace, chatting in low murmurs.
"Isn’t that Mr. Nelson? And the woman beside him, I heard she’s his girlfriend!" whispered one attendee.
"She’s gorgeous, so elegant!"
"Yes, I’ve heard the Davis family came into wealth after Robert married Ella’s mother. Though the company isn’t publicly listed, her mother was a brilliant businesswoman."
"Such a tragedy, though. She was poisoned by a mistress! So heartbreaking."
"But Miss Davis is lucky, I’d say—what a great man she’s found. If only I were that fortunate!"
"Wait, isn’t that Ella’s grandfather and cousin over there? Things might get interesting tonight."