Chapter 601 Charity Gala
The Valdemar Group - President's Office
Albert sat at his desk, eyes fixed on the computer screen, fingers flying across the keyboard as he processed documents with intense concentration. His expression was serious and focused, as if he'd sealed himself off from the outside world.
Sunlight streamed through the window, highlighting the strong lines of his profile.
A soft knock interrupted the silence.
"Mr. Valdemar?" Vincent's voice came from the doorway.
Without looking up, Albert replied, "Come in."
Vincent entered cautiously, approaching Albert's desk. His face betrayed hesitation and discomfort as he stood there, clearly struggling to begin.
Noticing Vincent's unusual demeanor, Albert frowned slightly. "Speak if you have something to say. Otherwise, leave."
After a moment's hesitation, Vincent explained, "Mr. Valdemar, the Valdemar Family has sent an invitation to a charity gala."
Sensing Vincent's unusual nervousness, Albert pressed his lips together thoughtfully. "You want me to attend?"
"Yes. I believe your presence at this event would be beneficial."
When Albert's expression darkened, Vincent quickly continued, "This charity gala focuses on helping underprivileged families. The Valdemar Group has always been committed to social issues, and this event aligns perfectly with our corporate values. Your attendance is necessary. Moreover—" Vincent paused, leaving his sentence unfinished.
After a moment of silence, Albert understood. "You're suggesting I use this opportunity to counter the criticism from within the Valdemar Group? Because of my early return from the conference?"
Vincent nodded.
Albert knew his decision to abandon the meeting and return early had created significant discontent among many in the Valdemar Group.
Though he had "suppressed" those who criticized him with a show of force, he understood that true leadership required both firmness and benevolence.
Attending this charity event and making a meaningful contribution would certainly help.
"Very well," Albert said, his tone softening. "I'll consider it. Your suggestion has merit."
Vincent, who had been on edge, finally relaxed. He knew Albert was thoughtful and deliberate—if Albert acknowledged his suggestion had merit, he would genuinely consider it.
"Now that Mrs. Valdemar's health is improving, bringing her to events like this would help establish a better image for her within the Valdemar Group and among the Luken people," Vincent added. "After all, the more people accept and admire Mrs. Valdemar, the more stable your marriage will be."
Albert contemplated this in silence. Vincent's words resonated with him.
The situation with Yvette was something he'd been handling alone—her father's issues, the multiple rumors of her disappearance, and her history with David—all remained fresh in people's minds, preventing them from truly accepting her.
He could protect Yvette for now, but he couldn't guarantee he wouldn't have a moment of oversight someday.
Albert looked up at Vincent. "When and where is this event?"
"Tomorrow evening at the Valdemar Group's reception center," Vincent promptly replied.
Albert nodded. "How does my schedule look?"
"There are some minor meetings and activities, but they can all be rearranged."
"Good." Albert gestured with a slight lift of his chin. "Prepare the materials. I'll bring her."
"Right away, Mr. Valdemar."
The following day, Albert returned home earlier than usual.
Yvette had already brought BoBo and CiCi home and was sitting on the sofa, patiently playing with the children. Their laughter echoed throughout the house, transforming the spacious residence into a warm, vibrant home.
Albert smiled, feeling a wave of warmth spread through his chest.
He approached Yvette and began negotiating with BoBo and CiCi. "BoBo, CiCi, I'd like to discuss something with you."
Both children looked up at him curiously. "What is it, Dad?"
Albert sat down beside them, gently ruffling their hair. "I was wondering if I could borrow your mother tonight to attend a charity gala with me. Would that be alright?"
CiCi blinked, confusion crossing her face. "Dad, what's a charity gala?"
"It's an event that helps people," Albert explained with a smile. "This particular gala is to support families in need."
CiCi still looked puzzled. "What does that mean?"
BoBo furrowed his brow, his expression serious as he explained, "In many parts of the world we don't see, there are people living in extreme poverty. They don't just live in rundown places—they often don't have enough food or clean water. This charity gala is meant to help them."
"Can it help lots of people?" CiCi asked excitedly. "That's wonderful!"
"Yes, it can help a great many people," Albert replied softly. "So, would you be willing to let me take your mother to this charity gala, where we can help more people together?"
"Of course!" CiCi beamed. "When I grow up, I want to help lots of people too!"
"You will," Albert smiled, touched. "When you're older, I'll take you both to help many people."
"Great!" BoBo and CiCi exclaimed in unison.
Yvette, however, appeared hesitant, watching Albert and the children without speaking.
Albert's gaze shifted to her, noticing her reluctance. Thinking he might have offended her by not asking for her opinion first, he addressed her directly. "There's an important gala tonight, and I'd like you to join me."
Yvette looked back at him, clearly unenthusiastic.
These past few days, she had been putting on a brave face for the children. Her health remained poor, a fact that continued to depress and frustrate her.
Hesitating, Yvette didn't want to refuse Albert outright. She sighed softly and replied, "Tonight? But I don't have a suitable dress."
Yvette knew her excuse was flimsy, but she couldn't think of anything better. She couldn't bear to use "poor health" as an excuse again.
Albert dismissed her concern easily. "We can have a stylist deliver options."
Yvette pressed her lips together, a hint of resistance in her eyes. "Will there be enough time?"
"Of course," Albert said, gently taking Yvette's hand. "And even if there isn't, the dressing room upstairs has plenty of gowns for you to choose from."
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