"Maybe I just got darker from the sun," Lena said.

"You must have gone through a lot over there anyway," Lina said.

Lena smiled. A worry gnawed at her whenever she wasn't by Lina's side. She feared that Lina might face mistreatment of some sort, akin to how Lina would fret if Lena got bullied in her absence.

Zuko and Chris exchanged glances, sharing an unspoken understanding. Those two treated them like they were invisible.

Before they could engage in conversation, Zuko and Lina were swarmed and ushered away. Chris couldn't escape socializing either.

Lena smiled and returned to her quiet corner.

Suddenly, someone handed her a glass of champagne.

Lena looked up and saw Elijah standing before her. He had slightly flushed cheeks and a tipsy smile.

Adjusting his tie, he nodded toward the balcony.

Lena followed him.

tranquil, a world apart from the bustling banquet hall. The evening

this rare moment of serenity. "Why aren't you inside, mingling with

her, reluctant to answer. In truth, she understood even without his words. Prolonged pretense and performance before many people

contemplated a happily-ever-after with Kasey? By all accounts,

Elijah said with a faint smile, "This time... thank

personal agenda. I wanted those children to receive

you his lucky

I could assist Mr. Patton. However, I also hope he follows through on his campaign promises

chuckled nonchalantly, taking a generous sip of his wine. "It's just a facade. Don't take it to heart! These things are mutually

marriage to Ms.

demeanor abruptly changed as

need. People are creatures of emotion. Over time, feelings tend to evolve. I believe that as Mr. Patton spends more time with those children, he will genuinely care for

him. "You and Ms.

drop the topic, but

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