Chapter 162 Shut Up
“Shaun certainly knows how to make an impression, doesn’t he? I have a feeling tonight’s event will be quite the spectacle. I’m curious though–how did you manage to secure an invitation?”
Ryland’s excitement was palpable as soon as he stepped aboard the cruise
with Renee.
Though he was accustomed to high–class affairs from a young age, the grandeur of the banquet hall still took his breath away.
The entire venue exuded sophistication and luxury. Magnificent chandeliers bathed the room in a warm, inviting glow, and the carefully selected tablecloths and dinnerware spoke of meticulous taste and, without a doubt, great expense.
Even the simplest piece of cutlery here was likely worth as much as a modest family’s weekly grocery bill.
As for the guests, they were all figures of prominence, each one someone of influence and reputation.
“Renee, take a look over there…” Ryland, careful not to point directly, subtly motioned toward a woman with his eyes.
Following his gaze, Renee noticed a woman in a breathtaking evening gown, her presence commanding attention. She was both striking and undeniably
beautiful.
“Is she a celebrity?” Renee asked.
“That’s Gia Frazier, the newly crowned Best Actress! The word on the street is that she’s Shaun’s secret lover. With her here tonight, I’d say the rumors are probably true.”
The mention of Gia’s connection to Shaun made Renee’s curiosity surge, prompting her to steal a few more glances at the woman. Their eyes met, and Gia briefly locked eyes with Renee.
Renee gave a polite nod, acknowledging her.
Gia, however, looked her up and down with an air of disdain before turning away without a word.
Renee felt a pang of confusion.
She glanced down at her own attire–a simple yet elegant evening dress,
nothing too extravagant or out of place.
“What’s that about?” she asked Ryland.
Ryland gave a nonchalant shrug. “It’s common for beautiful women to feel threatened by each other.”
“She sees you as competition,” he then added with a knowing smile.
Renee stood there, at a loss for words.
Before Shaun, the evening’s host, made his grand entrance, Renee wandered aimlessly, noticing nothing particularly out of the ordinary. Ryland had vanished into some corner, no doubt charming a handsome young man, leaving her to casually sample the impressive array of food.
To be fair, the selection of gourmet dishes was nothing short of remarkable, obviously crafted with meticulous care.
She had heard that this cruise would venture into international waters, where the real entertainment would begin, reaching its peak with
spectacular performances.
The entertainers were all stars of the moment, the darlings of showbiz, in high demand.
Those dazzling celebrities, adored by millions on screen, would have to wear outfits provided by the wealthy hosts, performing for a crowd of
exclusive guests.
It felt almost tragic.
Renee thought back to Gia’s earlier look, realizing it was probably indeed born from jealousy.
Despite Gia’s hard–won fame, in the world of the elite, she was little more than a pawn.
“Who’s that? A celebrity? She’s quite attractive.”
“Her? That’s Renee Carter. She used to be married to Mr. Mitchell, but he tossed her out. Now she’s just a nobody.”
“Then how did she get an invite to this party?”
“Who knows? She probably begged for one. Maybe she’s here to snare herself a richer man. Look at her, scanning the room for a target.”
Renee let out an internal sigh.
Yes, she was looking for Shaun–but if these people knew that, they’d likely dismiss her as delusional.
Arguing with these women and their gossip would be pointless, so she decided to find a quieter corner.
Just as she turned to leave, a voice filled with irritation cut through the air. “Shut up! You’re ruining all the fun.”
