Kristy tried to speak again, but Carole had already disconnected the call.


    What was this ‘surprise’ Carole mentioned? Anticipation fluttered in Kristy’s heart.


    Considering Lindsey’s presence, she couldn’t help but wonder what would happen when Lindsey saw Domenic.


    The thought alone made Kristy bristle with anticipation for the drama that was sure to unfold.


    In the corner, Lindsey sat isted, her gaze scanning the room fruitlessly for the CEO.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Eventually, she rose, deciding to take a more active approach in her search.


    As she did, a sudden tap on her shoulder made her turn.


    Carole stood there, her smile wide and inviting.


    “Lindsey,” said Carole.


    The sight of a familiar face brought a surge of warmth to Lindsey.


    Carole’s smile was tinged with intrigue.


    “I didn’t expect you to actually show up.


    ”


    “The effort was significant, but necessary,” Lindsey replied, her gaze sweeping the room.


    “Isn’t Mr.


    Walsh apanying you?” she queried.


    “He’s handling some urgent business at the office.


    He’ll join uster,”


    Carole replied with a gentle shake of her head.


    “Got it.


    ” With the CEO yet to arrive, Lindsey decided to stay put and wait.


    Carole’s eyes roamed over Lindsey, who, dressed in a pristine white gown, glowed with an almost celestial purity.


    A twinge of envy colored Carole’s perception.


    “Miss Stewart, please take a seat.


    I have other matters to attend to, so I can’t stay with you,” Carole stated, her tone courteous yet distant.


    .


    .


    Library


    After bidding Lindsey a polite farewell, Carole drifted towards the center of the banquet hall, where she quietly confided in Kristy.


    Their shared secretive smiles hinted at the scheming beneath their innocent exteriors.


    With their plot in motion, Kristy signaled a waiter and ordered a cup of ck coffee.


    Kristy approached Lindsey with a coffee cup in hand.


    Lindsey was bent over the table, checking her phone, when she heard Kristy’s voice behind her.


    “Lindsey.


    ”


    Choosing to ignore her, Lindsey acted as though she hadn’t heard Kristy at all.


    “Lindsey!” Frustrated by Lindsey’s apparent disregard, Kristy reached out and firmly grasped Lindsey’s arm, attempting to pull her to her feet.


    Lindsey quickly shrugged off Kristy’s grip, stood up, and turned to confront her.


    Just as she was about to speak, Kristy doused the ck coffee over Lindsey’s pristine white dress.


    “I’m really sorry, Miss Stewart.


    It was an ident,” Kristy said, immediately putting on an innocent look.