?Chapter 336:


    There was no trace of pretense in her tone—just quiet honesty and genuine gratitude for William’s steady support during the final stretch. She made a mental note to thank him properly soon. William’s lips curved into a smile. It wasn’t often she thanked him without a sharp remark—this time, her appreciation came through clearly, start to finish.


    Though William and Ste barely spoke on the ride back, Sandra and Elbert were smart enough not to pry. They weren’t buying the whole “nothing going on” act either—but they also knew when to keep quiet.


    As the car neared the hotel, Sandra suddenly perked up. “Hey, Sylvia, William—since we’re rarely in Wredo and thepetition’s finally over, how about we go out and have some fun?”


    Elbert jumped in right away. “I actually saw something earlier—there’s an exclusive elite dance party tonight. It looked pretty cool. We should go!”


    Sandra’s eyes lit up. “A dance party? When?”


    Elbert checked his phone. “Starts at eight tonight.”


    Ste and William exchanged a nce and, without much debate, agreed. After the stress of thest few days, a little celebration sounded nice.


    Sandra pped. “Perfect! We’re going dancing! Sylvia, do you have a dress? I don’t.”


    Ste didn’t either—this trip was strictly business, and no one had packed for a party. So instead of heading back to the hotel, they had the driver take a detour to a boutique downtown.


    By the time they picked out dresses and got their hair and makeup done, it was nearly time for the event. They hurried back to the car and headed straight to the venue.


    As they walked into the ballroom, upbeat music filled the space. The atmosphere was vibrant and energetic—nothing like the formal events they were used to back in Choria.


    Sandra dove into the rhythm, blending right in with the locals. She grabbed Ste’s hand, pulling her along. Ste hesitated, feeling awkward.


    Sandra leaned in, encouraging her. “Sylvia, rx and just follow the music. No one will notice you.”


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    Taking a steady breath, Ste rxed and began to sway to the beat, slowly finding the rhythm. Her movements were a bit stiff at first, but they softened as the music carried her.


    From the side, William stood with a ss of champagne in hand, his eyes fixed on her. Her dance wasn’t perfect—it was hesitant, a little offbeat—but it was endearing. Charming, even. He couldn’t look away.


    When the song ended, Ste and Sandra stepped off the dance floor, both a little flushed. Ste headed toward the long refreshment table and reached for a ss of orange juice. As she lifted it to her lips, she caught movement at the entrance and paused.


    Doreen had just entered, arm hooked through Marc’s, wearing a sky-blue gown that sparkled under the chandeliers. The dress was clearly expensive, a replica from a famous movie, adorned with tiny glittering stones. Ste raised an eyebrow and smirked. So Marc was willing to spend on Doreen now. Interesting.


    Doreen basked in the attention, practically glowing. Before Marc, she’d never imagined herself at events like this—let alone as the center of admiration. Such asions had once felt out of reach, something she’d only seen in movies or dreamed about from afar.


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