Chapter 200: Chapter 200

Violet

The kiss was chaste, nothing more than a friendly gesture of support but I froze anyway, my entire body going still as his warmth registered against my skin.

Dane pulled back, either not noticing my reaction or choosing to ignore it. He leaned in slightly, his voice dropping to something more intimate.

"If the launch goes well," he said, "let me take you to dinner to celebrate. Just the two of us."

"I..." I began but he nodded. "Yeah, I know you are not in the right mental space. Don't worry, I haven't celebrated in years myself and it would be nice to dine with a friend. That's all"

When I still didn't say anything he sighed. "Well, then I'll just go eat with my grandfather again if its too much for you."

"If the launch goes well, we can eat together" I gave him a wry smile and his eyes lit up, illuminating his face completely.

"Thanks" He said with a bright smile and I he stepped back, that hopeful and easy smile returning to his face.

"I should go mingle with the early arrivals," he said. "Good luck tonight, Violet. Not that you'll need it."

Then he was gone, disappearing into the growing crowd of people, as I returned back to the booth confused what to think about it all.

He'd asked me out indirectly, but that hope in his eyes was too clear to miss.

Dane was handsome, successful, and kind. He was exactly the kind of man I should be interested in.

But all I felt was empty and numb inside.

"Violet!" Mirella's voice called from the booth. "They're about to open the doors! Get over here!"

I shook off my thoughts and took my position. Mirella was doing a final check of everything, her face flushed with excitement and anxiety in equal measure.

"Remember," she said, gripping my arm. "Smile. Be friendly but professional. Answer questions about the pieces but don't oversell. Let the work speak for itself."

"I know," I said, though my stomach was doing somersaults.

The announcement echoed through the exhibition hall, amplified by the sound system.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the Lunar Gala will open in five minutes. Exhibitors, please take your positions. Guests will be admitted shortly."

Five minutes later, the doors opened.

People flooded in a wave of elegant gowns and expensive suits. They scattered immediately, some heading straight for booths they'd researched beforehand, others wandering to browse and see what caught their eye.

Our booth's prime location meant we attracted attention immediately. A group of women in designer dresses approached first, their eyes drawn to the sapphire necklace.

"Good evening," I said, forcing warmth into my voice. "Welcome to our collection. Please, feel free to look around. If you have any questions, I'd be happy to answer them."

"These are gorgeous," one of the women said, leaning closer to examine the necklace. "Are these natural sapphires or lab-created?"

"Natural," I confirmed. "Ethically sourced from Belaway. Each stone was hand-selected for color consistency and clarity."

I launched into my practiced explanation, as more people approached.

I answered questions and made small talk, letting them handle the pieces and discussed custom commission possibilities.

It was going well. Multiple people had taken business cards, expressing interest in commissioning custom pieces. One woman had actually purchased a bracelet on the spot, making Mirella practically glow with satisfaction.

I was mid-explanation about the inspiration behind one of the ring designs when the lights flickered above my head, making people glance up.

Somewhere to my left a voice booming through the sound system with enthusiasm.

"Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention please."

"We are honored to announce the arrival of tonight's chief guest," the announcer continued, and I felt slightly annoyed to see the man I’d been answering questions turn his attention to the podium.

"Our chief guest tonight is a prominent figure in the business community," the announcer said, building anticipation.

"A visionary entrepreneur who has built his company from the ground up into one of the region's most successful ventures. His innovative approach to sustainable development and community investment has revolutionized the industry."

I kept my eyes on the emerald earrings, adjusting their position slightly on the display. Whoever this person was, they sounded impressive. Good for them.

"He has been recognized with numerous awards for business excellence, including the prestigious Lunar Council's Innovation Award three years running. His philanthropic work has transformed communities across the region."

The guest in front of me was fully focused on the podium now, clearly more interested in seeing this business titan than in my earrings.

"Tonight, we are privileged to welcome a man who exemplifies the values of the Lunar Gala. Excellence. Innovation. Community."

Get on with it, I thought. Just announce the name so people can get back to looking at my jewelry.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming our chief guest for this evening's Lunar Gala..."

There was a dramatic pause before the name dropped.

"...Mister Elijah Lockwood!"