Love’s Unexpected Arrival The Bride Who Came Knocking by Rochelle

Chapter 20 Ashley Needs Hawk

In the dining room… Dressed in a sleek black evening gown, Ashley approached Hawk in high heels, offering a sweet smile, “Mr. Cullen, thank you for gracing us with your presence. Let’s raise a toast.” Hawk nodded and expertly clinked his glass against hers with elegance. Ashley turned her attention to Maria beside Hawk and asked, “And what might your name be?” Trying to maintain composure, Maria smiled and replied, “I’m Maria.” “Pleasure to meet you! You look stunning,” complimented Ashley. “Thank you!” Maria responded, her smile unwavering. “Maria, I don’t have a partner. Could I borrow Mr. Cullen for a moment? I’d like to say hello to some friends with him,” Ashley requested, her gaze fixed on Maria expectantly, making it difficult for Maria to refuse. Maria looked at Hawk, hoping for his decision. Despite their impending marriage, they were still relative strangers. She was becoming increasingly aware of their stark differences. Initially, when he had given her the check, she thought he was born into wealth. Now, she realized he was a president. Hawk glanced at Maria and instructed, “Wait for me on the sofa!” “Okay,” Maria sighed in relief. It was a relief that he agreed to Ashley’s request; otherwise, she would have felt quite uncomfortable. With a sweet smile, Ashley linked her arm with Hawk’s, while Maria, glass in hand, walked towards the western sofa. The high heels were beginning to take a toll on her feet. A familiar voice broke the silence, exclaiming, “What a surprise!” Maria looked up and noticed Ruby gazing at her with hostility, her arm linked with Chris’s. Chris diverted his gaze from Hawk and Ashley, fixing his eyes on Maria, a tinge of ridicule in his expression. “I heard Mr. White’s daughter ranks 47th on the world socialite list.” Despite the situation, Maria maintained her bright smile. “She deserves the recognition. She’s both beautiful and elegant.” Chris’s taunting demeanor became more pronounced. “Doesn’t it make you feel inferior?” Maria’s smile remained unwavering. “Some are born to be envied.” Chris coldly laughed, “You know how to comfort yourself.” Undeterred, Maria raised an eyebrow, meeting Chris’s gaze. She was hurting, but she refused to let her pain show. “Why not?” Maria retorted. “It’s none of your concern.” She then gracefully walked away. Chris’s hurtful words had pierced her heart, yet she refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing her break down. Ruby glared at Maria’s departing figure, her teeth gritted in frustration. Maria’s unyielding demeanor always seemed to irk her, stirring her anger. Though Maria had left, Chris’s gaze remained fixated on her. “Chris!” Ruby’s voice softened as she tightened her grip on his hand. Chris remained unresponsive, still lost in thought, his eyes following Maria’s trail. “Chris!” Ruby’s gentle call persisted, trying to draw his attention back to her. Lost in a flurry of emotions, Chris’s gaze lingered on Maria. Their two-year university romance had left an indelible mark on him, but Maria had played with his feelings, ultimately marrying another man and seemingly finding happiness. “Chris!” Ruby’s voice turned softer, her concern evident. “Let’s raise a glass to Mr. White!” Chris abruptly suggested, leading Ruby in Jason’s direction. Maria didn’t warrant his attention. Though he didn’t reciprocate Ruby’s affection, he knew she loved him and would remain loyal. With a softer expression, he added, “When Mom returns from her trip, let’s discuss our marriage.”