Chapter 98: The Gala II

As the last notes from the gala’s orchestra faded into the evening air, the mood shifted from the formalities of awards and speeches to the vibrant energy of mingling and celebration. The official part of the event was over, and now it was a time for congratulations, hugs, and handshakes.

"Congratulations, Doctor!" came the chorus from attendees flocking around Athena, their voices a melodic blend of joy and admiration.

A bright smile adorned her face as the accolades poured in—"Best Medical Service to Humanity" and "Most Influential Woman in The City."

Her awards were sitting pretty with Gianna.

Hence, she basked in the spotlight, the recognition that came after years of relentless dedication to her patients and her craft.

"Thank you, thank you all!" She said, accepting heartfelt pats on the back and warm congratulations.

In that moment, she felt a sense of pride swell within her. After the long nights and the days filled with challenges, it was rewarding to be seen and celebrated for her hard work.

Meanwhile, Gianna and Sandro exchanged excited chatter, filling in the gaps in the crowd. Their laughter rippled through the air like music, drawing attention from those nearby.

Zane, standing a few feet away with his arms crossed, watched them both, a mixture of irritation and unease flashing across his face.

"It’s like a flirtation fest over there," he muttered under his breath. Although he tried to focus on welcoming guests and making small talk, his eyes betrayed him, sneaking glances toward Gianna and Sandro. When did they get so inseparable?

Ewan too, stood at the edge of the crowd, doing his best to engage with other attendees, though his gaze continuously drifted back to Athena.

Her warmth, her light—it was disarming. Ewan tried to remind himself to stay focused on Fiona, who stood by his side, a frown tugging at her lips as she noticed his wandering attention.

As if reading his mind, Fiona leaned closer, her voice laced with annoyance. "Ewan, focus on the people who actually matter here," she said, a sharp edge to her tone. "We’re supposed to be networking, not ogling over Athena across the room."

Ewan steeled, hating to be called to his bullshit. "I have no idea what you’re talking about, Fiona. Are you seeing things now?"

Fiona’s frustration deepened. She ignored his question. "You said you wanted to get over her, remember?"

Ewan said nothing to that. But he finally looked away from Athena.

by greetings and small talk. The moment though started getting suffocating for her as time went on. She needed an escape from the attention, a breather from the swarm of people who seemed to want something from her in the form

scanned the room, she spotted Ethan by the entrance of

good! The

generating buzz. She thought, noticing

public here, he was the

out, relief flooding her voice as she made her way through the crowd

she approached, she noticed Chelsea beside

was her friend doing here? And was that Areso? Those sly

a well-respected international pediatrician, known for her compassion and dedication to children’s health. She was striking in her red lacy gown,

her stood Areso, one of the most influential fashion designers in the world, renowned for her exceptional talent and signature style. With her

believe

have here!" She exclaimed as she arrived, her

mischievously. "Our surprises

first, pulling her into a tight embrace. "I’m so glad to

the feeling is mutual. I watched the awards presentation as Ethan drove us here. You deserve every bit of praise this

in the hug then, offering Athena a

Athena," Areso added, her charming French accent enhancing her words. "Only you could shine brighter

Areso! You’re quite the flatterer," Athena said, giggling as the three shared a laugh. Gianna soon joined them, her eyes

reunion!" Gianna said, wrapping her arms around the trio in a circle of

for a moment, Athena forgot the heavy

facial expression—a tense look weighing on her features. It was a

Chelsea?" she asked, her concern

Chelsea could respond, Athena caught sight of Sandro at the distance, his eyes flickering between her

to take hold of the room. What now? Why did everything seem to

with this dynamic?" she thought, her mind racing. "Is this a cruel twist of

away from their group, her footsteps

her, a mix of alarm and unbelief in her tone. "Where are you going?

Athena. I just... I need some air," Chelsea replied curtly, casting one last frustrated glance at Sandro before disappearing into the throng of

her mind. She felt the weight of the disruption hanging over the group, and with

but paused for a moment. "You okay?" she asked

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