?Chapter 667:


    It was strange, almost like instinct, how his eyesnded straight on the car.


    For a moment, Ste wondered if he could see her through the tinted windows. But she quickly looked away andposed herself. “Let’s go,” she said calmly.


    At the party, Ste arrived with her arm tucked into Rutherford’s, wearing the dress he’d picked out for her.


    The event was set in arge garden, filled with soft lights and gentle music. As they walked in, Ste couldn’t help but notice the nces sent their way.


    Sensing that she might be feeling a bit nervous, Rutherford gently patted her hand and said, “Rx, they’re just staring because you look incredible tonight.” His kind words made Ste chuckle softly, and some of her tension eased.


    Then Rutherford guided her over to his group of friends and introduced her. “This is Ste Gilbert, the one I’ve mentioned before.” That surprised Ste. He’d talked about her?


    The group turned to look at her, their faces showing a mix of curiosity and interest.


    “Nice to meet you, Ste,” said one man in ck-rimmed sses. He looked more clever than bookish.


    “That’s James Holmes,” Rutherford added. “We went to college together.” He then introduced the rest of the group one by one, and Ste greeted each with a polite smile and nod. After the introductions, Rutherford said, “We’ll take a quick walk. You guys go ahead and enjoy.”


    There was light teasing from the group as he led her away.


    Rutherford guided Ste toward a quieter corner of the garden and asked gently, “Are you okay? If you’re feeling out of ce, I’ll take you home right now.”<fne4bb> For more chapters visit ?ovelFind</fne4bb>


    Ste, who was more used to indoor events, actually found the open-air setting refreshing and less overwhelming than she’d expected.


    With a small smile, she replied, “Don’t worry about me. Go enjoy time with your friends. I’ll head back myselfter.”


    But Rutherford quickly objected, saying, “Not a chance. You’re here with me. I’ll make sure you get home safely.”


    His tone left no room for debate. Ste thought for a moment and replied, “Alright, then. I’ll call you when I want to go home.”


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    Knowing she wasn’tfortable hanging around strangers, Rutherford didn’t push her to rejoin the others. He gave her a small nod and let her go.


    Ste wandered alone for a while and was enjoying the peaceful surroundings until a familiar figure came into view.


    It was William.


    He’d clearly spotted her too. After setting his drink aside, he made his way over.


    She instinctively wanted to step away, but then she heard his voice behind her. “Ste, why are you avoiding me? Do I reallye off as that scary?”


    His words made her freeze. Her body tensed, and without meaning to, she clenched her teeth before slowly turning around to face him.


    “What do you want, Mr. Briggs?” she asked in a t tone.


    Her coldness hit William like a sharp sting to the heart.


    “Why have you been avoiding me?” William asked.


    Ste’s expression didn’t give anything away. Her face was calm, and her eyes were steady, almost like she was hollow, impossible to read.


    She said, “I’m not avoiding you.”


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