...
Ruby spent the next few days counting down to the charity gala, her excitement and nerves growing with each passing day.
She had never attended such an event before, and the thought of going with Aurora made her feel both excited and nervous.
On the night of the gala, Ruby put on a beautiful dress that Ava had helped her pick out.
The silk fabric rustled softly as she moved , and the diamond on her necklace sparkled under the lights.
Aurora arrived promptly at 7 pm, looking stunning in a red gown that showcased her elegant figure.
"You look lovely, Ruby," Aurora said, smiling.
As the arrived at the gala, Ruby's eyes widened in awe. The grand ballroom was filled with elegant guests, and the music floated through the air, a lively mix of classical and modern tunes.
The smell of fresh flowers wafted through the room, adding to the luxurious atmosphere.
The charity gala was in full swing, with guests mingling and laughing.
Rumors about the mysterious benefactors filled the air, with the Richmonds and Wynters speculated to be involved.
Aurora smiled warmly and took Ruby's hand, leading her to where the Wynters were waiting.
The Wynters welcomed Ruby with open arms, putting her at ease.
Meanwhile, Liam prepared to leave for the charity gala, hosted by the Evergreen Foundation.
He had declined Sophia's offer to accompany him, despite their families' expectations.
Sophia, her grandfather, Harrison and mother, Vivian, arrived at the charity gala, drawing attention with their elegant attire .
Whispers spread quickly among the guests, speculating about Liam's absence by Sophia's side.
Before long, Liam arrived with his mother, causing a stir among the guests.
Sophia's expression subtly shifted as she watched Liam stride forward.
The Grey's were known for their influential connections and impeccable taste, and tonight was no exception.
Evelyn Grey, Liam's mother radiated confidence as she accompanied her son into the ballroom.
While Liam and his mother mingled with the guest, Ruby couldn't help but notice the way he commanded attention without seeming to try.
Aurora leaned in, whispering, "Evelyn Grey is quite the socialite, isn't she ?"
Ruby nodded, her eyes fixed on Evelyn's poised demeanor.
Vivian Richmond had noticed Liam's arrival and nudged Sophia subtly.
"Perhaps, it's time to greet Liam and his mother," she suggested, her voice low.
Sophia nodded, a determined glint in her eyes.
She excused herself and made her way towards Liam, her elegant gown flowing behind her.
As Sophia approached Liam, the air thickened with anticipation.
Liam's eyes met hers, and he nodded, though his expression remained guarded.
"Good evening, Liam," Sophia said, her voice sweet as honey.
"Mother ", she added nodding to Evelyn.
Evelyn's smile was warm, "Sophia, dear, you look stunning ," she replied.
While Sophia approached Liam, the whispers and speculation among the guests began to die down.
The polite greeting between Sophia and Liam sent a subtle message: the rumors of their engagement were true.
The guests' eyes lingered on the pair, their expressions a mix of curiosity and interest.
The air was charged with unspoken confirmation, and the whispers gradually ceased.
Evelyn Grey's poised demeanor and Sophia's elegant smile seemed to convey a sense of inevitability, quelling the speculation and fueling the anticipation for the formal announcement.
Liam excused himself, nodding politely to Sophia and his mother.
He approached a tall, dark-haired man standing by the bar. "Alexander," Liam said, his voice low and friendly.
Alexander turned, a hint of a smile on his face. "Liam. I see you're still stuck with the Richmonds," he said, his voice laced with amusement.
Liam's expression turned wry. "It's complicated," he replied.
Ruby watched the scene unfold, her eyes fixed on Liam's guarded expression.
She had noticed Sophia's smile faltering for a moment before she regained composure.
Ruby wondered what was really going on between the two of them.
As Ruby continued to observe, she noticed Liam's eyes scanning the room, his gaze lingering on her briefly. Ruby felt a flutter in her chest.
Aurora leaned in closer. "There's more to Liam than meets the eye," she whispered.
"So, what's the latest on the Evergreen project?" Liam asked, sipping his drink.
Alexander leaned in, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "We've encountered some unexpected setbacks.
The Richmonds are pushing for more control, and it's causing tension among the stakeholders."
Liam's expression turned thoughtful. "I see. I'll need to discuss this further with my mother. She's been handling the negotiations on our end."
Alexander nodded. "I think it's time we reassess our strategy.
The Richmonds won't give up easily, and we need to be prepared to make some tough decisions."
As they spoke, Ruby couldn't help but wonder what they were discussing. She felt a pang of curiosity about Liam's life beyond the gala.
As Liam's eyes met Ruby's again, he felt a spark of curiosity.
"Why was this intriguing woman accompanying Aurora?"
Ruby, sensing Liam's gaze, felt a flutter in her chest.
She couldn't help but wonder what lay beneath his polished exterior.
Aurora noticed the exchange and smiled knowingly. "I'll introduce you to Liam," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Aurora led Ruby through the crowd, navigating past elegant guests and ornate decorations.
Aurora smiled warmly as she approached Liam and Alexander.
"Liam, Alexander, I'd like to introduce you to Ruby, the winner of the Art competition."
Liam turned, his eyes meeting Ruby's, and smiled politely. "I do remember, it's a pleasure to meet you again." Alexander nodded in greeting.
As they shook hands, Ruby felt flustered while smiling warmly.
"It's lovely to meet you, Mr Grey and Mr Alexander," Ruby said, her voice gentle.
Liam's smile deepened. "Please, call me Liam. Mr Grey makes me sound old."
Ruby laughed, "I will".
Aurora smiled, satisfied with the introduction. "I'll leave you two to chat. I need to mingle ".
As Aurora walked away, Liam turned to Ruby. "Your artwork is impressive. What inspires your creativity?"
Alexander also walked away after being approached by another guest.
Ruby's eyes lit up as she discussed her art with Liam. "I'm inspired by the world around me – nature, people, emotions. I try to capture the beauty in everyday moments."
Liam listened intently, his eyes sparkling with interest. "I'd love to see more of your work," he said, his voice sincere.
As they chatted, Ruby felt a connection with Liam she hadn't expected. The conversation flowed effortlessly, and she found herself opening up about her passions.
As Liam and Ruby chatted, Sophia's anger and frustration grew.
She watched with disdain as Liam smiled and laughed with Ruby, feeling increasingly threatened.
"Sophia, what's wrong?" Evelyn asked, noticing Sophia's tense expression.
"It's that woman, the winner of the recent art competition held," Sophia replied, her voice low.
Sensing the jealousy, Evelyn's expression turned thoughtful as she watched Ruby and Liam converse.
"Maybe Liam is just being polite," she said, her voice calm.
Sophia's eyes narrowed. "I don't think so. He's really taken with her."
As Sophia spoke, Liam and Ruby continued their conversation, laughing and smiling together.
Sophia's expression boiled over as she watched Liam and Ruby laugh together.
"We have never had a conversation together, not to talk of him laughing with me", Sophia complained to Evelyn.
Evelyn's expression remained calm, but a hint of concern flickered in her eyes.
"Perhaps Liam is just enjoying Ruby's company, Sophia. Don't read too much into it."
Sophia's face twisted in frustration. "You don't understand, Mother. Rumors have been going round the social circle, that the engagement is not true".
Sophia's voice took on a note of desperation. "We need to put an end to those rumors, Mother".
Evelyn's expression turned thoughtful. "Perhaps it's time we make a statement, Sophia. A public announcement would silence them once and for all."
Sophia's determination only grew stronger. "Exactly, Mother".
As the evening wore on, Evelyn Grey stepped up to the microphone, a smile spreading across her face.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to announce a momentous occasion that will unite two esteemed families."
The room fell silent, anticipation hanging in the air. Evelyn's eyes met Liam's, and she continued, "We are delighted to announce the engagement between Liam Grey and Sophia Richmond."
The room erupted in applause and gasps, with guests exchanging surprised glances. Ruby's eyes widened, and she turned to Aurora, who looked equally stunned.
Liam's expression remained neutral, while Sophia smiled graciously, her eyes sparkling with triumph...