She did not know what tricks Gianna had up her sleeve this time. She even went so far as to involve her mother to ensure Summer's attendance.Summer asked, "Mom, do you know what Gianna intends to do at this party?""I'm not sure. Gianna's mother was quite mysterious with all this. She didn't tell me anything specific. She only said she wanted Gianna and you to bond at the party," Jeannine replied."Oh, I see—"A glint of light flashed in Summer's eyes. She could feel in her guts vaguely that the party was definitely not for bonding. If it was just a regular show-off party, she could accept it, but if Gianna had some malicious intentions, that would be troublesome.However, Summer knew that Gianna could not do her much harm. Even in college, she often played pranks on Summer, with the most serious one being ruining the dress she was going to wear to the school graduation party. Other than that, there was nothing major.This time, since Summer had decided to attend the party
Summer chose to attend Gianna's party looking beautiful.The black gown gracefully trailed behind Summer as she walked in a pair of delicate heels. When she stepped out, a black car had already parked in front of the house.Charlie, seated in the driver's seat, said, "Madam, I'll drive you to the party."Summer did not refuse the offer. There was a bit of distance from her parents' home to the destination, and having someone drop her off was more convenient.Despite this, a mild disquiet enveloped her. It had nothing to do with Gianna. Rather, it stemmed from different concerns. Perhaps it was because she sensed that something was about to transpire.Shaking off these thoughts, Summer gestured for Charlie to drive.Gianna's residence stood as a lavish villa adorned with an Eblicean-style design. It was situated in the vibrant downtown area. Its exterior exuded a sense of grandeur and opulence, resembling a luxury hotel.Such magnificence was to be expected, given the Hardy famil
Gianna said, "Oh, you didn't know, Summie? Did I forget to tell you? The theme for this party is the 'Lovers' Party.'""The Lovers' Party?""Yes, you'll have to bring your partner to attend this party," said Gianna before she turned around and pulled in her plus-one from afar.Handsome and mature, the man was impeccably dressed in a sharp suit with glossy combed hair. The situation suggested an intimate connection between him and Gianna."Summie, let me introduce you to my new boyfriend, Frank Walker. He's the CEO of the Walker Group," said Gianna with a proud expression on her face.Right then, Frank chimed in, "So, you're Summer. I always hear Gianna talk about you."He extended his hand, intending to shake hands with Summer. He exuded a gentlemanly demeanor, but Summer did not think he was a true gentleman. He sounded arrogant, as if he was above others.Despite this, Summer patiently shook hands with him. It was a social etiquette, and although she knew Gianna intended to em
But, of course, Gianna wouldn't admit that she had once pursued Hank. She immediately denied it, saying, "Summie, what are you talking about? Don't slander me.""Slander? Everyone knew about it. Some of our old schoolmates are here as well, right? Why don't we ask them to find out?"Back then, Gianna's pursuit of Hank had caused a sensation at their campus. It had angered her greatly when Hank ended up with Summer.Summer wasn't the only one invited to this party. Those who had attended the same university were also present, and most knew about that incident.If Summer were to have them prove that Gianna had indeed chased after Hank, Gianna wouldn't know how to explain herself.However, she wasn't so foolish to let them smear her name. After all, she had gone to great lengths to be together with Frank. She wouldn't allow gossip to spread now."Ugh, Summie, I invited you to my party out of kindness. Why are you making a scene here? Do you think I'm a pushover?" Gianna sounded furi
Besides, Summer wanted food more than dancing. Her energy was wasted on quarreling with Gianna earlier. Although she had dinner before coming to the party, she was still hungry. Thus, she picked up some pastries on the table and started eating.At the same time, Summer continued searching for a dance partner. There were numerous young men in the rotunda, most of whom were invited by the Hardy family. Some were acquainted with Gianna, while some had business relations with her family.Initially, Summer had thought she would find a suitable candidate, but her attempt was futile after nine minutes of searching back and forth.In hindsight, the lads who attended the party had come prepared. In other words, they knew the party's theme and brought their own partners. So how could any of them be alone?For a moment, Summer began to panic. What if she were to be left alone, standing at one side while the rest of the guests danced? That would be so awkward!Just then, Summer suddenly thoug
Summer tried to convince Charlie. "Don't let me embarrass myself. Many of my former acquaintances will be watching. If I don't present myself well, people will make fun of Charter Corporation.""I'm sorry," Charlie replied. His terse response indicated his firmness. Summer felt exasperated by his obstinate character. No matter how she tried to explain the situation, it wouldn't go through his head. What should she do now?The lights outside the entrance were bright, but few people were around. On the contrary, loud music played in the rotunda, making the atmosphere lively.Now that the guests were in place, they would start dancing as soon as the waltz music started.Gianna came out of the hall with a smile on her face. "Summie, what's the matter? Can't you find a dance partner? I think you might as well let me help you out. I have several waiters who are good at dancing. Let's ask them to dance with you, what do you say? At least you won't ruin your family's reputation."Gianna l
After introducing Summer, Gianna continued, "I have a request to make. Is there any guy here who can leave your partner to dance with my good friend, Summer?"Immediately, there was a stir among the crowd. Everyone started discussing and whispering in each other's ears about Summer's public search for a dance partner."Isn't that Summie? I heard that she broke up with Hank. I didn't expect her to be in such a sorry state. She doesn't even have a companion to bring to the party.""It's so pitiful that the successor of Charter Corporation has trouble with love."The guests chatted non-stop, and everyone was in a mood to watch the drama unfold. Many of the guys present wanted to volunteer because Summer was beautiful. Besides, her outfit enhanced her appearance considerably. She looked truly generous and elegant.But these men already had their own companions, so they couldn't do anything about it.At this moment, Summer was flushed red from mortification. She was at an utter loss,
It would be a lie to say that she wasn't nervous. Summer's heart was beating violently now that she was with James, especially when she was about to dance a waltz with everyone's eyes on them.Summer's dance skills were poor, and she was afraid of making mistakes. James seemed to read her thoughts and said reassuringly, "Dance however you want. Don't worry."His words were like the sun, filling her up with warmth and comfort. It was as though the wandering Summer had suddenly found a home where she could belong, like a floating dandelion returning to the soil.As the music started softly, Summer rested her head on James' shoulder. The two danced on the glazed floor tiles with light steps, holding onto each other lovingly.The air in the hall was romantic and sweet. A sense of mellowness blossomed in everyone's hearts as they watched Summer and James dance in a subtle yet captivating way. Their movements were elegant and graceful, and their fluid steps ignited emotional sparks in th