Chapter 604 David and Violet
As twilight descended upon the city, stars began to shimmer in the night sky.
In the heart of this bustling metropolis, an elegant charity gala was about to unfold.
The car glided smoothly to a stop in front of the Valdemar Group Conference Center. Yvette stepped out gracefully, her arm linked with Albert's as they approached the venue that had been transformed into a space both intimate and dignified for the evening's event.
Upon entering, they were greeted by a spectacle of understated opulence. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm, golden glow throughout the room, illuminating every corner as if it were bathed in gentle daylight. The perimeter of the hall was adorned with tasteful decorations that lent a festive air to the proceedings.
Handcrafted artworks from various impoverished regions were displayed prominently around the room, each piece capturing the eye with its authenticity and craftsmanship.
At the center stood a stage flanked by lush greenery, with a large screen displaying images of transformation and progress in disadvantaged communities. The atmosphere struck a perfect balance between celebration and solemn purpose.
For Yvette, attending this type of charity event for the first time, the experience was both novel and touching.
"I had no idea the Valdemar Group hosted such meaningful events," she remarked, her eyes taking in the scene with genuine appreciation.
Albert glanced down at her, relieved to see her earlier irritation had completely vanished.
"Do you enjoy this sort of gathering?" he asked.
"I do," Yvette began, but was interrupted by a familiar voice calling their names.
"Albert, Yvette." They turned to see Cheryl approaching them with a warm smile.
Though time had clearly etched a few more lines on her face since they'd last met, her eyes brightened noticeably at the sight of Yvette.
"Grandmother, you're here too?" Yvette couldn't hide her surprise.
"I make an appearance at this event every year," Cheryl said with satisfaction. "But you're the real miracle worker, Yvette. Albert has always been generous with donations but never attended in person until now. You must have been quite persuasive!"
"I can't take credit for that, Grandmother," Yvette exchanged a glance with Albert. "He was actually the one who suggested we come."
Cheryl's face softened with contentment. "Good. Seeing you two like this puts my mind at ease."
She shifted her gaze to Albert. "Albert, treasure what you have. Support each other and grow together."
"Of course," Albert replied without his usual resistance, placing his arm around Yvette's shoulders. "You don't need to tell me that—I understand perfectly."
Cheryl turned back to Yvette. "How are the children doing? They're adjusting well now, I hope?"
"Yes, they are," Yvette's expression softened at the mention of BoBo and CiCi. "Thanks to you, everything worked out beautifully."
"I'm glad to hear it."
Yvette's face showed a flicker of remorse. "Grandmother, I haven't brought the children to visit you since we returned. When things settle down, I'll bring them to spend time with you." Her eyes glistened slightly as she spoke.
Initially, Yvette had struggled to find her footing in the Valdemar family. Albert had been indifferent, and no one had taken her seriously. It was Cheryl who had acknowledged her, allowed her to remain at her side, and given her the support she needed to gradually earn respect within the family.
Yet the twists of fate had created an awkward distance between grandmother and granddaughter, reducing their once close relationship to polite formalities.
Cheryl immediately understood Yvette's meaning and was visibly moved. "That would be lovely. I get rather lonely in that big house. Whenever you and the children are able, I'd welcome the company."
Cheryl was clearly trying not to pressure Yvette, but they both knew that at her age, each visit became increasingly precious. In the year since Hayden's passing, Cheryl's health had noticeably declined.
After just a brief appearance and a few words, she was escorted away by her attendants, leaving before she could even properly say goodbye to Albert and Yvette.
Watching Cheryl being helped away, Yvette released a deep sigh.
Albert, sensing her disquiet, leaned down. "What's wrong?"
"I feel guilty about Grandmother. I should take the children to see her more often."
"If you want to visit regularly, I'll accompany you," Albert said, studying her face carefully. "I thought perhaps there might be some tension between you two."
Yvette pressed her lips together. "She only did what was right for someone in her position."
Albert was touched by her understanding. He gently rubbed her back. "Yes, she did."
Recalling the conversation between Cheryl and Yvette, he asked, "What were you discussing with Grandmother earlier? What was resolved so well?"
"Just an incident while you were away on business—BoBo and CiCi had some trouble with classmates at preschool. Since you weren't here, I turned to Grandmother for help," Yvette explained. "Everything's fine now. It was just children's squabbles, nothing you need to worry about."
Albert raised an eyebrow thoughtfully but acquiesced. "All right, I won't pry."
The gala officially began after Cheryl's opening address.
This charity event differed significantly from the formal functions Albert typically attended with Yvette. It had less of the commercial polish and extravagance, focusing instead on sincerity and compassion. Yvette found the event genuinely meaningful.
Albert kept his arm around Yvette's waist as they mingled with other guests.
Suddenly, a commotion erupted from across the room.
Everyone instinctively looked toward the disturbance, but the crowd was too dense to see what was happening.
A few people emerged from the throng, whispering among themselves while casting pointed glances at Albert and Yvette.
Fragments of their conversation drifted across the room.
"No way—the brothers are really playing musical chairs like that?"
"I'm shocked. I knew wealthy families had drama, but this is beyond messy!"
"The Valdemars must have incredibly thick skin to swap partners between brothers without batting an eye!"
The crude gossip, filled with stinging insinuations, caused both Yvette and Albert's expressions to darken instantly.
As they stood bewildered, the crowd parted.
A couple stepped into view.
Albert and Yvette froze, their eyes meeting in mutual disbelief.
David and Violet!
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