“Alright.


    ”


    I drew in a deep breath, straightened my posture, and lifted my chin.


    With Andrew leading the way, I walked into the vi, matching his steady pace with measured steps.


    Upon stepping into the vi, I was overwhelmed by the sight of marble floors, dazzling chandeliers,


    and intricate murals adorning the walls.


    Everyone was dr@ped invish attire.


    Everywhere I looked, opulence abounded.


    As Andrew and I entered the hall, all eyes seemed to pivot toward us, their gazes a mixture of surprise and disdain.


    Ivy couldn’t help pursing her lips.


    “You were correct; they truly don’t seem to embrace your presence here.


    The hostility is palpable, and they make no effort to conceal it.


    ”


    I offered her a calm smile.


    “Let them harbor their feelings.


    It doesn’t faze me.


    ”


    Strangely, amidst such a setting where one might typically feel a surge of nerves or embarrassment, I remained surprisinglyposed, as though these grand asions were familiar territory.


    Even Andrew seemed taken aback by my demeanor, murmuring apliment.


    “Debra, you’re handling this admirably; beyond my expectations.


    ”


    I waved off his praise with a modest gesture.


    “No trouble at all.


    ”


    “Mr.


    Pierce!”


    As we conversed, scanning for a ce to settle, a well-dressed, portly gentleman approached.


    He greeted Andrew with a toast and a warm smile.


    “Long time no see, Mr.


    Pierce.


    How have you been?”Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Returning the smile, Andrew replied, “Busy as always.


    What about you?”


    I remained silent, allowing their conversation to flow uninterrupted.


    To my surprise, after exchanging pleasantries, the gentleman’s attention shifted to me with a predatory gleam in his eyes.


    With a sly smile, he inquired, “Mr.


    Pierce, may I inquire about this enchanting youngdy? What brings her to this banquet tonight?”


    His scrutinizing gaze bore into me, his words carrying an undercurrent of insinuation.


    “I don’t recall you ever bringing a femalepanion before.


    What inspired this delightful change?”


    Debra’s POV:


    The sight of the gentleman made me ufortable, causing me to frown.


    Andrew was quick and moved to stand in front of me, blocking me from the man’s view.


    In a calm voice, he said to the gentleman, “Debra is my guest.


    ”


    The gentleman chuckled as though he had just heard something amusing, lifting an eyebrow.


    “Mr.


    Pierce, are you serious? How could a lowly mixed-blood witch possibly be suitable as your guest?”


    I felt my eyebrow twitch.