“Meet them? You’ve exceeded them by miles. Come, I want to introduce you to some people.”
The next hour was surreal. Patricia pulled me from group to group, introducing me as the talented pastry chef responsible for the incredible desserts. People complimented my work, asked about my training, requested business cards. I was visible in a way I’d never been at family events, acknowledged for my actual skills rather than dismissed for my choices. Julian stayed close, his presence both supportive and strategic. He made sure to mention our relationship to everyone we spoke with, positioning me not just as the chef, but as his partner. In this world that valued connections and status, being Julian’s girlfriend carried weight. I watched Victoria notice us from across the room, saw her expression shift from confusion to recognition to something that looked like discomfort.
“They’ve spotted us,”
Julian murmured in my ear.
“Ready for what?”
“To remind them you exist.”
Before I could respond, Gregory was approaching with Victoria beside him. Up close, he looked strained, his smile not quite reaching his eyes.
“Julian. Elizabeth. Good to see you both. Elizabeth, I’ve heard nothing but praise for your desserts. Very impressive work.”
“Thank you. I’m pleased they’ve been well received.”
Victoria stood slightly behind Gregory, her expression carefully neutral.
“Hi, Elizabeth. Everything looks beautiful.”
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“Thank you, Victoria.”
An awkward silence stretched between us. Finally, Gregory broke it.
“Julian, I was hoping we could discuss the final phase of the sustainability project. There are some budget considerations we need to address.”
“Of course. Elizabeth, would you excuse me for a few minutes?”
I nodded, and the two men moved away, leaving me alone with Victoria. The moment felt heavy with unspoken words.
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