Chapter 791: Before the Gala
“This isn’t a film festival red carpet—you’re walking too slow,” Lynch quietly reminded her as they entered the gala. “People won’t praise you in magazines for taking your time. They’ll just mock you.”
Penny lowered her head, visibly sulking, but didn’t dare argue. “Got it. I’ll walk faster next time.”
As they stepped into the venue, the President and First Lady approached them.
“I’m glad you could come, Lynch,” the President said warmly, then gestured to the woman beside him. “This is Barbara.”
The First Lady looked slightly older than the President—common among Federation women. When men and women of the same age stood together, men often appeared younger, and women older.
Her sagging skin had brought some wrinkles to her face, but she still looked kind and gentle.
“Hello, Lynch. He always talks about you,” Barbara said, reaching out to shake Lynch’s hand. According to social etiquette, she didn’t have to—but this gesture challenged traditional norms that feminists often criticize as signs of male-dominated society.
Still, Barbara was not just the President’s plus-one—she was the host of the gala, and that role deserved respect.
“I’m still young, and I make my fair share of mistakes. I hope he doesn’t get too many headaches when he talks about me,” Lynch replied humbly.