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Bryan’s eyes lit up when he saw the Swanns’ car pull into the driveway, his heart skipping a beat in anticipation. He quickly straightened his tuxedo and gave David a knowing glance. “See? I told you she’d come fashionably late.”
David chuckled and nudged Bryan, teasing, “You’re practically jumping out of your skin. Try to play it cool.”
Catherine stepped out of the car, her presence commanding attention. Unlike Liana’s over-the-top glam, Catherine wore a sleek black dress that perfectly complemented her understated elegance. Her makeup was minimal, yet it highlighted her natural beauty. She was effortlessly stunning.
The moment she set foot on the manicured lawn, she caught Bryan’s eager gaze, and a small smile tugged at the corner of her lips. She was well aware of Bryan’s excitement, though she couldn’t help but find the whole situation a bit amusing.
As Catherine walked towards the entrance, Bryan, unable to contain himself, was already moving towards her. “Boss, you made it!” he exclaimed, trying to act casual but failing miserably. His eyes sparkled with excitement.
Catherine raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. “Of course, I did. You didn’t think I’d skip your party, did you?”
Bryan laughed, his nerves dissipating as he offered her a glass of champagne. “I wasn’t sure. But now that you’re here, the party’s complete.”
Catherine took the glass with a smile but didn’t take a sip. Instead, her eyes scanned the room, taking in the elegant décor and the well-dressed guests. It was clear that Bryan’s family had spared no expense.
“Nice turnout,” Catherine remarked, her voice cool but appreciative. “I must admit, you know how to throw a party.”
Bryan grinned, basking in the compliment. “Glad you think so. It wouldn’t be the same without you here.” He gestured for her to follow him into the main hall where the other guests were gathered.
As they walked through the crowd, Catherine couldn’t help but notice Liana standing with a group of friends, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction as she flaunted her designer attire and diamond necklace. It didn’t take long for Liana to spot Catherine, and her smug expression flickered for a second before she quickly masked it.
Liana’s voice rang out a little too sweetly as she addressed Catherine, “Catherine, how lovely to see you. I wasn’t sure you’d make it after all your… busy schedules.”
Catherine looked at her sister with an impassive expression. “I wouldn’t miss it. I’m sure Bryan’s guests are thrilled to see me here.”
Liana’s smile tightened, but she didn’t press the issue further. Catherine had always been the one to stay composed, no matter how much Liana tried to provoke her.
“Would you like to join us?” Liana asked, her tone dripping with faux politeness.
Catherine was about to reply when Bryan interjected, “Hey, Liana! Let’s all have some fun. It’s a birthday party, after all.” He shot Catherine an apologetic look, sensing the underlying tension.
Catherine nodded, accepting the diversion. “Sure. Let’s enjoy the evening.”
As the night wore on, Catherine found herself drifting between the groups of guests, her mind partially occupied with her usual sharp observations of the crowd. But she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was a bit off with Bryan. His constant attempts to stay close to her, his eagerness to make sure she was enjoying herself, all of it made her wonder. Was this just a birthday party for him, or did Bryan have something else in mind?
Still, she kept her composure, enjoying the evening as best she could. Meanwhile, Liana seemed to be on a mission to outshine everyone, making sure all eyes were on her. The night was still young, and Catherine wasn’t sure where it would lead—but she was determined to enjoy it on her terms.
Bryan, however, had something else planned for Catherine later in the evening, something he was eagerly awaiting. He knew she had agreed to come as a courtesy, but he wasn’t giving up on making her feel welcome—and maybe, just maybe, he could get her to let her guard down a little more.