Chapter 430 This gathering was a golden opportunity-anyone who knew how to seize the moment could make powerful connections and gain access to invaluable resources, propelling their company to new heights, maybe even vaulting themselves into an entirely new social class.
Both mid-level executives and top brass had been looking forward to this evening's gala for weeks.
Citrine had arranged for her evening gown to be tailored well in advance.
That night, she arrived at the venue with Carlotta Yarbrough by her side. Citrine's goal tonight was simple: make an impression and quietly assess the room for promising business partners.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtShe wore a chic black cocktail dress, a bespoke necklace draped elegantly around her neck. Her hair was swept up in a graceful chignon, exposing the smooth lines of her face, and her makeup was subtle yet sophisticated- cool, refined, and commanding attention.
The moment she stepped inside, all eyes turned to her.
Business leaders and heirs alike couldn't help but glance her way.
"Which family's heiress is that? I've never seen her before, but she's stunning." "No idea. Maybe the daughter of a small business owner?" "She looks so poised, but honestly, she seems awfully young. If her family's already bringing her to events like this, she must be seriously doted on." Citrine ignored the whispers, guiding Carlotta to a quiet lounge area where they could sit for a while.
They had barely settled in when someone called out from across the room.
"Citrine." A familiar voice. Sof the reserve faded from Citrine's eyes as she turned, puzzled, in the direction of the sound.
Raymond, dressed in a crisp suit, was approaching, a flicker of surprise and genuine delight crossing his face. "Citrine? What are you doing here?" If she told him she was using this event to announce herself as chairwoman of CICI Group, he'd never buy it. So Citrine paused, then changed tack. "Just here to network, meet a few people," she said lightly.
It struck her was this the sgala Raymond had invited her to yesterday, the one she'd declined? She bit her lip, then asked, "The dinner you mentioned yesterday-this is the one?" Raymond nodded.
He hadn't forgotten that he'd once promised to introduce Citrine as his successor. With only one invite for an heir allowed, she was naturally his first choice for tonight.
A rare flicker of guilt crossed Citrine's face. "I'm sorry. I didn't realize this was the sevent." Raymond just smiled. “No harm done. You're here now, and that's what matters." He'd been about to ask who she'd cwith, but noticing Carlotta at her side, he guessed the answer and let it drop.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmInstead, Raymond offered, "Citrine, I've gotten to know quite a few gentlemen in Crestwood. Letintroduce you." "Sure," Citrine replied, momentarily surprised but making no protest.
She turned to Carlotta, murmured a few words, and then followed Raymond into the crowd.
During his tin Crestwood, Raymond had built an impressive network, and most of them had shown up for the gala tonight.
He led Citrine through the hall, stopping to introduce her whenever they ran into someone he knew. "This is my daughter, Citrine Carmichael. I hope you'll look out for her in the future." Across the room, Hilda had just arrived and immediately caught sight of them.
She watched as Citrine walked arm-in-arm with a well-dressed middle-aged man, chatting with someone Hilda didn't recognize
Suddenly, the stranger laughed and Citrine and the man exchanged an glance, both smiling. Hilda's expression soured. She quickly snagged a passing guest. "Excuse me— do you know the man over there, and the girl on his arm? What's their relationship?" Her tone was tight, impatient.
The man glanced up, and when he realized who was addressing him his face lit up-President Saunders herself! He must have lucked into something good tonight.
He replied eagerly, "President Saunders, yes, I know them. That's Raymond, and the young lady with him is his daughter, Citrine Carmichael."