Perhaps it was Julian’s efforts in networking for her business, or maybe it was because Asher was coming to visit, Aurora was in high spirits all day. Time flew by, and with a full schedule, she spent the entire day at school.
As she walked out of school, she saw a Rolls-Royce parked at the entrance. She didn’t even have to guess whose it was. Julian changed cars more often than clothes. When Aurora appeared, the car window rolled down, revealing a handsome face. “Get in,” he said.
Recalling his mention of a dinner party that morning, Aurora didn’t hesitate and got into the car. She had just settled in when she took off her glasses and tucked her hair behind her ears. Away from school, her demeanor shifted dramatically.
“I’m exhausted,” she declared, no longer restrained in Julian’s presence, and slumped lazily against the seat.
Her fatigue had lingered from a hangover the night before, and it had been a struggle to make it through the day. “The day has just begun. You can’t give up this early. Shall I give you a massage?” Julian’s words made her open her eyes.
“It’s already afternoon. Most of the day is gone. How can it just be starting?” she protested.
“The dinner party has been changed to a banquet. I’m taking you with me,” he explained.
Only then did Aurora notice the subtle change in Julian’s attire. He was dressed in evening wear. “A banquet? Are the Montgomery family and Susan also going to be there?” She would have preferred to show up later if possible.
“Don’t worry. Today’s banquet is quite special. I guarantee no one will recognize you. I’ve also invited some CEOs. As for the Montgomery and Simmons families, even if they attend, they won’t recognize you. Just stick with me and get to know these CEOs,” Julian reassured her confidently, as if he had everything under control.
“With my protection, they’ll have to show some respect, and your company’s operations will run much smoother. At least, you won’t have people blindly stealing your clients,” he added, his experience evident in his assurance.
“Thank you.” Aurora genuinely appreciated his support.
“No need for thanks. If you really want to thank me, then accompany me…” he started to say.
“No.” She cut him off, knowing all too well where his flirtatious banter was headed without needing to hear the rest.
She rejected him without a second thought, now speaking to Julian without her usual caution.
“I just want you to accompany me for a day out. Is that too much to ask? I’ve been preparing for your banquet wholeheartedly, Aurora. You’re really heartless,” Julian said, feigning heartache.
Aurora stiffened. “Of course, I can accompany you. I thought you meant…” She quickly stopped herself.
“Thought what?” Julian leaned in closer, a mischievous smirk on his lips.
He knew exactly what she was about to say, yet he prodded further, enjoying the moment.
“I thought you wanted me to make a big meal for you.” She quickly changed her tune, though her blushing ears gave her away.
Julian didn’t press further. “Oh, I thought it was something else.”
“Of course, what else could it be between us?” Aurora straightened her back, momentarily relieved.
The car slowly pulled to a stop. Aurora looked around. “Is the banquet being held here?”
“Do you think you’d go in dressed like that?” Julian raised an eyebrow.
Aurora glanced at her outfit and decided against it, figuring she’d be turned away before even entering. Julian’s car was pulled up at the side of the road, opposite a fashion boutique with a distinctly European, luxurious design. Once inside, she realized all items were bespoke, many unavailable to the general public.
The layout gave the place a unique vibe, and as soon as Julian walked in, he was promptly greeted.
“Mr. Barnet, I heard from my assistant you were coming and couldn’t believe it, yet here you are,” said a man who approached them.
The man, in his early thirties, wore simple yet meticulously detailed clothing.
“Calvin, this lady will be attending a banquet with me tonight. Help her get ready,” Julian said indifferently.
Despite Calvin’s warmth, Julian’s demeanor remained aloof, with an air that kept others at a distance, except for the rare tenderness he showed only in Aurora’s presence.
“Sure. Miss, please follow me. Mr. Barnet, you can rest over there,” Calvin directed them.
“Okay,” Julian replied and moved aside to rest.
Having attended many dinners, Aurora was no stranger to such events. “Hello, Calvin. I’ll be in your care,” she greeted him politely.
“That’s my job. Let’s start by picking out a gown,” said Calvin, a top name in the fashion industry known for his unique temperament and not just anyone could hire him.
Aurora still wondered what made Julian so revered by Calvin. During a pause in selecting the gown, she glanced at Julian, casually seated, flipping through a magazine with an innate elegance like that of a nobleman, his presence daunting.
“How about this one?” she suggested, choosing a black evening gown.
“Miss, you have great taste. This gown is not easy to pull off, but your tall frame does it justice,” Calvin remarked genuinely.
“I’ll try it on to see if it fits,” Aurora said.
“Good, pair it with these black high heels,” Calvin suggested, bringing a pair that matched the gown.
Aurora, carrying the dress and shoes, headed to the fitting room. When she stepped out, the staff were all stunned by how well she wore it.
“Miss, many celebrities have tried this gown, but none have worn it as beautifully as you. It was made for you,” a staff member exclaimed.
Aurora looked at her reflection in the mirror. The gown perfectly accentuated her figure. She had changed significantly from the naive girl of three years ago, her bare face already drawing admiration.
“It’s acceptable.” It was all she said about the gown.
“Miss, please come over here to get your hair done,” the staff member said, eager to see the complete transformation.
The next hours dragged on, yet Julian showed no signs of impatience. By the time Aurora was fully prepared, two hours had passed.
“I’m ready,” she announced.