Chapter 478

Hienuelh cpserved thet Chande gae wo tatly assumuina he uuig/wt wot wave carradwt ter moids so she rebereied herself," Cemdie, Ivoror dio yomn ruane thea ladyo"

Rz/cher thein ofthening his oroun thoughts, Chaudie tossad the gura stvon back to hor. "Wibat dio you thiink?"

Hannelh lloovered her gless of mieter retlactad paiafly, and galiveted a bolonced tomark "Trely remarkable.Aftractive teatunes and confidient bowning antvcumate and countoous, reliablo prolossion, determined outlook.And trom what we just discussed, her valuas seam to corespond wall with yours You should genutnely glve thiis match some thought"

Claude absorbed her umpertial and reasoned opinion unsettled by mixed sentiments. It was not the response he had wislved for.

He lifted his cup of coffee to veil his feelings and then artfully transitionod the subject toivard his underlying goal."Hmm, I'll keep it in nund Speaking of which, there's an elite chanty gala coming up, quite a grand affair, with many distinguished attendees How about I bring you along? It'll provide valuable exposure and an excellent chance to introduce you to several contacts, which could broaden your network for your profession."

His voice carried an effortless air, as though the suggestion had just surfaced.

29Hannah arched her brow faintly. "Alright, it'Il be valuable exposure."

Claude's mouth curved into a faint smile. His parents would also be at the ggala.

He intended to publicly present Hannah to them before the notable audience, signaling that she was tho woman he had chosen.

**8

Within the charity gala, Claude guided Hannah across the gathering with composure, acquainting her with respected corporate figures and admired personalities in culture. Hannah maintained elegance and poise.

Claude smiled slyly. The crucial introductions were completed. He swept the hall with his eyes and noticed his mother and father conversing with longtime acquaintances. He drew in a steadying breath and brought Hannah toward them.

"Mom, Dad," Claude greeted them with a tender smile. "This is Hannah Scott, the young lady I've often spoken of."

Terrell Hobbes and Evelyn Hobbes pivoted toward them.

Terrell retained his stern presence, granting only a minimal nod while his piercing eyes measured Hannah carefully.

Evelyn displayed a gracious smile, her tone warm and polished. "Greetings, Ms.Scott."

"Greetings, Mr. and Mrs. Hobbes." Hannah inclined her head lightly, her smile composed.

Following the exchange, the mood grew somewhat strained.

Terrell and Evelyn refrained from deepening the dialogue, simply maintaining courtesy.

Then, an energetic feminine voice suddenly lifted the tension, "Mr. and Mrs. Hobbes, you've come as well!"

Lindsay arrived, clad in a refined pink cocktail gown, gleefully hurrying over.

Evelyn's expression brightened instantly upon spotting Lindsay. She extended her hand with affection,clasping Lindsay's fingers. Her tone carried unmistakable warmth, "Lindsay, such joy to see you. And look,Claude is present too!"

Lindsay addressed them with polite civility,"Hello,Claude,and Ms. Scott."

Evelyn kept hold of Lindsay's hand, gazing upon her with fond admiration. "Lindsay, are you acquainted with Ms.Scott?"

Lindsay's lips curved sweetly. "We've crossed paths briefly."

Lindsay's father had cleverly shifted attention by confronting Nikolas at the fencing arena to conceal her misconduct. Without that, the Hobbes household would never have embraced her so favorably. Her presence at the gala was arranged through Elvin's probing efforts.

Evelyn continued her lively conversation with Lindsay, openly neglecting Hannah, who remained beside them.

Terrell, though less verbose, directed a kind regard toward Lindsay, occasionally adding comments,blending into an easy and natural rapport with her.

Together, the three formed an intimate circle, treating Hannah and Claude as though unseen.

Hannah lingered quietly at the edge, unfazed by their disregard, even finding comfort in the seclusion.

Claude's composure faltered. He had not foreseen his parents being so indifferent, plainly showing a preference for Lindsay while overlooking Hannah.He turned toward Hannah, murmuring contritely, "Forgive me, Hannah. They just need more time with you. Things will improve once familiarity grows. Don't let it trouble you."

Hannah faced him with a calm smile."1"alright, Claude." Her eyes were steady and luminous, free of complaint or resentment.

Claude observed her tranquil and unwavering demeanor, only feeling more frustrated within.

Across the opposite side of the banquet chamber, Bobby spotted Hannah alongside Claude's parents while he engaged with acquaintances. He deliberated briefly and chose to place a call to Vincent.