Chapter 193

With a nod and a smile, Natalia addressed her maid, “It’s not as dramatic as you’re making it out to be.

Let’s get to the dinner party, shall we?”

“Seriously, Miss, you’re like an angel fallen from heaven. Absolutely stunning.” The maid continusa to shower Natalia with praises and even puffed out her own chest with a sense of pride. It was as if serving such a beautiful woman was her own greatest honor.

Natalia chuckled softly. Her steps were light and swift as she moved forward, and her mood was incredibly upbeat.

The dinner party was held in the back garden of the castle. By the time Natalia and her maid arrived, the venue had already been transformed into a dazzling scene of luxury. Looking at the banner hanging in the semi–open air of the garden, Natalia squinted her eyes, reading each word aloud, “Celebrating Miss Natalia’s triumphant win at the design competition?”

A slight twitch appeared at the corner of Natalia’s mouth. Who came up with this banner? Was it purposely designed to mock her?

Callum! Must be him!

Moreover, what was the meaning of “triumphant win“? She had fairly participated in the competition, not a boxing match. Could they refrain from using the term “triumphant“?

As Natalia was internally criticizing the banner, she was unaware that all eyes at the venue were focused on her. This place was never short of beautiful women. However, they had never seen someone quite as ethereal as Natalia. Ever since she had woken up, Callum had kept her well–

protected and hidden, leaving many completely unaware of her existence. But now, they were truly beholding her beauty.

Her fashionable evening gown clung tightly to her exquisite figure, accentuating her already perfect curves, and making her all the more alluring. The silver–white gown was embroidered with silver threads that shimmered under the lighting, making her appear as though she was cloaked in stardust.

From the moment Natalia emerged, Callum’s gaze had not wavered from her. He suddenly regretted having this gown specially made for her. Why did he organize this dinner party? Her beauty was so captivating, it was something that should’ve been treasured and not coveted by others.

She was his!

As Callum was contemplating whether or not he should have Natalia change her dress, the guests he had invited began to arrive.

“Oh, Callum, it’s been so long. I thought you’d embarked on another world tour.” A tall man approached Callum with open arms and an easy smile.

Callum stepped forward for a hug and playful punch, laughing. “Henry, my old friend, your presence here lights up the room!”

“Cal, you couldn’t even spare a hug for me.” A petulant voice sounded. The speaker was a voluptuous blonde with blue eyes, pouting at Callum.

Callum subtly stepped back, and a forced smile showed on his face. “Ah, Ms. Alice from the Mckinney family, welcome.”

The blonde’s face registered even more displeasure. She tugged at Henry, her brother, and complained, “Henry, look at Cal. He’s not sincere at all.”

Henry seemed helpless with his sister, placating her with a smile. “Where’s the insincerity? He clearly welcomed you.”

“Hmph! That’s not a welcome. He’s so distant. Cal is the worst. He did not even spare me a hug!” The woman continued to pout.

Henry shook his head helplessly. “Alice, you know Callum. He never hugs any woman, let alone kisses them. Show some dignity, we’re from the McKinney family. You’re not some little girl begging for candy.”

After speaking, Henry looked at Callum with regret. “She’s always been like this. She’s idolized you since she was little and has always wanted to win your attention. She’s prone to throwing tantrums.”

Callum laughed it off. “It’s okay. She’s like my Callum laughed it off. “It’s okay. She’s like my sister. I don’t mind. Come, let me introduce you to the star of tonight’s party.”

With that, Callum led Henry over to Natalia, presenting her with great formality, “This is the star of tonight’s party, the recent winner of the Global Design Competition, Ms. Clarkson.” Then, he introduced Henry and his sister to Natalia, “They are from the McKinney family. This is my childhood playmate, Henry, and this is Henry’s sister, Alice.”

“Hello.”

“Hello.”

Natalia and Henry both nodded, exchanging polite greetings. Only Alice pouted unhappily. Her blue eyes darted to Natalia before she walked away. She had been infatuated with Callum since childhood.

Callum was hosting such a grand party for another woman, and Alice couldn’t help but want to make a sarcastic remark. “Oh, what kind of designer is so incredible? Seems like you’re quite capable.”

Natalia noticed the hostility in Alice’s eyes but didn’t understand what she had done to offend her.

However, all guests should be treated with respect, especially since Callum invited them. She had to be gracious.

She simply responded to Alice’s rudeness with a slight smile and modesty. “I’m not as amazing as you suggest. I was just lucky.”

Contrastingly, Alice’s arrogance only increased. She huffed through her nose, and her disdain became more apparent. “Hmph. I knew you couldn’t be that impressive. To think Cal would go to such lengths for you…”

Alice’s words were cut off by a stern glance from her brother. “Alice, don’t be rude! Mind your status and tone.”

He then turned to Natalia with a soft smile. “I apologize, Ms. Clarkson. My sister can be a bit spoiled. I hope you won’t take it to heart.”

“Of course not, she’s just stating the facts,” Natalia said with a soft chuckle, showing that she didn’t take Alice’s provocation seriously.

The moment she uttered those words, it highlighted Alice’s rudeness, making her so furious that she began to stomp her foot. “I can’t believe this! Why did I even come to this stupid dinner party? I could’ve been sitting comfortably at home instead of being humiliated by some unknown outsider!”

“Alice!” Henry retorted. His expression was stern. “If you’re not pleased, feel free to leave. Callum didn’t invite you, remember? You insisted on tagging along with me!”

Henry felt utterly embarrassed by Alice’s foolish behavior. How could his sister be so thoughtless? It was crucial to remember that they were there representing their family at the banquet. Every word uttered, every action taken, absolutely could not tarnish their family’s reputation.