Chapter 78 I Am Charlotte's Boyfriend
Thinking of Frederick, Charlotte's eyes softened. She was at that in-between age, not quite a girl, not quite a woman- and in moments of allure, she was simply captivating.
On the other side, Ethan was stationed amidst his ex-classmates, now respectful peers who addressed him as "Mr. Cooper" with a mix of reverence and flattery. Surrounded by alluring women well-versed in the art of captivating men, in the past, Ethan might have entertained the idea of indulging in some casual encounters, rewarding his chosen companion generously thereafter.
But now, Ethan wasn't interested in any of them. None of them could compare to Charlotte.
Ethan held his drink, sipping it absentmindedly, his eyes fixed on Charlotte.
Over there, Charlotte and Lily had contributed their share of meal fee. Tina accepted it ungraciously, with a fake smile. "I'm really sorry, Charlotte. Your family's in decline, and you still have to pay this money. How about we pay it for you?"
Her voice was loud enough for everyone to hear, deliberately trying to embarrass Charlotte.
But Charlotte smiled faintly. "No need. I can afford it!"
Tina counted the money and looked at Charlotte in surprise. "You paid for two people? Charlotte, are you really bringing that old man to the reunion?"
Before Charlotte could respond, Tina covered her mouth and giggled. "Seems like he's quite possessive!"
The room fell silent. People looked on with curiosity. Charlotte used to be the belle of the music academy and came from a well-off family. They couldn't believe she had fallen to this extent. They hadn't believed the posts on the school forum before, but now Tina had said it herself. It must be true!
Some felt sympathy, others mocked, and some clearly distanced themselves. Those who had been sitting at the same table with Charlotte quietly asked to change seats.
Such contrasting responses vividly illustrated the intricate dance of human connections, showcasing the duality of warmth and aloofness that often accompanies shifting social dynamics.
Amidst the gossip and whispers, a few professors from the music academy couldn't help but privately lament the complexities of society beyond the confines of the school's walls.
Tina looked at this and smiled with satisfaction. This was exactly what she wanted! Who told Charlotte to find an old man?
Ethan frowned slightly. Tina had gone too far. Who gave her the confidence to think she could bully Charlotte at will?
He was about to stand up when the elevator doors slowly opened. Frederick walked out. Tall, handsome, with an air of cold nobility.
The banquet hall buzzed with excitement; they couldn't believe they were seeing Frederick in person.
"Oh my God! He looks even better than in the magazines!"
"He’s so elegant. His legs are so long. He has a high-bridged nose!"
"What is Frederick doing here?"
The professorsof Radiant University had already stood up, along with the parents of students with status, all rising to greet Frederick. In Syeattel, anyone associated with the Hawkins family was bound to prosper!
Although Frederick was known to be aloof, showing up often could be beneficial—at least it would make an impression on him!
Unexpectedly, Frederick was unusually approachable today. He declined the offered cigarette with measured politeness. "My girlfriend doesn't allow me to smoke."
What! Girlfriend?
Frederick gently wrapped his arm around Charlotte's shoulders, smiling. "There's no need for formalities. I'm here to eat just like you. Charlotte doesn't like me smoking at home."
Everyone was stunned! Frederick's words shocked everyone. Charlotte? The one who was said to be with an old man was actually Frederick's girlfriend!
The banquet hall fell into a long silence.
Frederick wore a charming smile and called out to Ethan, "Ethan, I'm dating Charlotte. You all seem quite surprised!"
Ethan was stiff all over; he could hardly move. How ridiculous he was! Just now, he was thinking of explaining for Charlotte, but she had already brought someone to protect her, the most noble and powerful man in Syeattel!
Ethan downed his drink in one gulp. Then he smiled faintly. "You two are a good match!"
With Frederick's words, all the men present extinguished their cigarettes because his girlfriend didn't like people smoking.