Chapter 156 Demonstrating Her Status to Riley
It felt like forever, but Hollis finally emerged from the fitting room.
"Not bad, this one works," Catherine approved, eyeing Hollis's outfit with a nod of approval.
Hollis beamed and turned to Donovan. "Hey there, Donovan!"
Donovan gave a stoic nod in response.
Paying no mind to his chilly vibe, Hollis grinned and explained, "Auntie wanted me to tag along to pick out a dress. What do you think of this one?"
She gave a little twirl as she asked.
Donovan, feeling miffed by Catherine's setup, gave a halfhearted nod. "Looks good."
Despite his lackluster response, Hollis tried to maintain her smile, feeling a tad self-conscious.
Catherine rose from her seat, suggesting, "Well, since Hollis is heading to the party, she might as well come with us."
Grateful, Hollis agreed, "Sure thing, Auntie."
After agreeing, Hollis glanced shyly at Donovan, as if remembering his presence. Donovan frowned. With the conversation reaching this point and Catherine watching closely, he reluctantly relented, "Let's go."
Without another word to Hollis, Donovan headed out. Feeling hurt, Hollis cast her eyes down. Catherine comforted her with a gentle pat on the arm, indicating not to take it personally. Hollis nodded understandingly and looped her arm with Catherine's, following her out.
In the car, Donovan remained quiet, only offering brief responses to Catherine's questions, his demeanor visibly distant. Clutching her hand tightly beneath her dress, Hollis suppressed her discontent, her thoughts fixed on impressing Riley with her presence.
At the Benedict family estate, Daniel mingled with guests until his energy waned. Then Dalton fetched a wheelchair, helping Daniel greet the guests while seated.
Despite Riley's plan to greet Daniel and leave, he insisted she stay by his side.
"You should get to know these folks. Allow me to introduce you," Dalton said, ushering her to stay.
Left with little choice, Riley mingled with the guests alongside Daniel, making herself known.
Soon enough, Dalton's parents made an appearance.
"Dr. Monroe, right? Dalton and Mia always speak highly of you, mentioning how you helped Daniel. Lovely to finally meet you. Your skill is only outmatched by your beauty," praised Dalton's mother, Isabella Wilson.
Riley graciously smiled and thanked her.
Dalton's father, Luke Benedict, expressed his gratitude to Riley. "Over the years, we've consulted various doctors for my father's ailment, to no avail. Thanks to you. If there's ever a need, the Benedict family is at your service."
Almost declining, Riley was interrupted by Daniel. "I'll still need Dr. Monroe's assistance for my recovery. It's only right."
Remaining silent, Riley smiled vaguely.
Mia, trailing her parents, listened to the compliments for Riley with disdain, scanning the room for Hollis and Donovan, eagerly awaiting their entrance. She anticipated seeing Riley's reaction when Hollis arrived with Donovan shortly.
Mia's wait didn't last long. Soon enough, Donovan strode through the villa entrance.
"Donovan's here," Mia announced theatrically to the room.
