Chapter 61 Charity Auction 2
As Hera’s chauffeur opened the door, she was engrossed in exchanging text messages with Athena, passing the time as they waited. When she finally stepped out of the car, she was in for a colossal surprise.
The car came to a halt in front of a long red carpet, flanked on either side by reporters conducting live broadcasts on the internet, showcasing the ongoing Charity Auction led by the Lowry Family. The event aimed to raise funds for victims of natural disasters worldwide, with all proceeds from the auction dedicated to the cause.
Hera stood momentarily rooted to the ground, her gaze fixed absentmindedly ahead. Despite her internal disarray, she maintained a composed facade, her face betraying none of the turmoil within. Fortunately, Athena had foreseen this moment and positioned herself nearby, ready to intercept Hera as she disembarked from the vehicle. With Athena stepping out ahead, Hera was spared the need to face the crowd directly as she gathered her composure.
As Hera stood there, lost in her thoughts, she felt a sudden arm hooking around hers. Startled, she glanced down at her own arm, then followed it up to see Athena standing beside her, a mischievous smile playing on her lips.
It dawned on Hera that she had been set up by her best friend. Athena had intentionally brought her to the upscale Charity gala without informing her beforehand, ensuring Hera wouldn’t have the opportunity to decline the invitation upon realizing the magnitude of the event.
Hence, Athena had only informed Hera about the event three hours prior, ensuring she wouldn’t have the opportunity to investigate or inquire about the specifics. By then, Hera would be preoccupied with preparations, leaving her no chance to decline.
Hera’s gaze narrowed as she scrutinized Athena’s expression. Athena, feeling guilty, avoided Hera’s gaze and attempted to diffuse the tension by pouting her lips, adopting a cute facade in hopes of averting Hera’s potential anger.
As they strolled arm in arm along the red carpet, Hera couldn’t shake off her confusion about Athena’s tactics. She leaned in and whispered firmly, "What tricks are you playing at?" Her voice conveyed a mixture of curiosity and reproach, demanding an explanation.
"I knew you wouldn’t agree to join me here," Athena confessed, her voice tinged with regret. "But given that we’ve shared the same life for so long, I could only hope for your support by having you here. I feared you might refuse, so I resorted to underhanded tactics." She pouted slightly, her sincerity evident. On the screen, they appeared close like sisters, radiating beauty and warmth.