Never Mistake a Queen for a Lapdog novel Chapter 336

“Noreen, why are you slacking off at work and gossiping?”

“…Okay, I’m logging off. Vanishing now,” Sophia muttered.

—

That morning, Noreen attended the closing ceremony, then got ready to head back to Rivercrest City. Before she could leave, Castle’s assistant showed up with a coveted invitation: the Harborview City Chamber of Commerce’s 30th Anniversary Gala.

An invitation to Castle’s gala was the stuff of dreams for most people.

Without hesitating, Noreen changed her flight and asked Claire to help her book an appointment with a renowned stylist from Glenhaven City. She wanted to make sure she’d attend the event looking impeccable.

While she was getting her hair and makeup done, Healy texted to ask when she’d be heading to the airport.

“I’ve got something to take care of. I won’t be flying back just yet,” Noreen replied.

Healy was more disappointed than he let on. He’d thought this trip might give him one more chance to spend time alone with her. But things had changed, and all he could do was catch his original flight.

When he came downstairs to check out, Jude, Seth, and Bianca were already waiting in the lobby.

“Hurry up, man! We’ve all been standing around just for you,” Jude called out impatiently.

“Alright, alright, I’m coming,” Healy replied.

While they waited, Henry messaged Bianca, asking if she planned to return to Rivercrest City.

Bianca texted back, “Yeah, I’m just about to head to the airport.”

“I was going to fly back with you guys, but I need to stay an extra day for Mr. Joyner’s gala,” she added.

Henry had barely gotten a chance to speak with Bianca during this trip. Seth was always at her side, so most of the time Henry could only watch her from a distance—sometimes, just a fleeting glance.

Seeing Henry’s message, Bianca paused before typing, “When you say Mr. Joyner, do you mean Castle Joyner?”

“Yes,” Henry replied.

Bianca’s grip tightened on her phone. She turned to Seth, a note of urgency in her voice. “Did you know Mr. Joyner is hosting a gala tonight?”

“I did.” Seth’s handsome, reserved face didn’t betray any emotion.

“Did you get an invitation?”

Healy rolled his eyes and kicked Jude’s leg. “Why don’t you focus on making some money, get your head out of romance, and save yourself the trouble?”

Seth always got things done efficiently. Half an hour later, he told Bianca everything was settled.

He then took her to pick out a dress and get her hair and makeup styled.

This time, Bianca had learned her lesson. She chose a sleek black dress with a business edge, but paired it with bold, luxurious sapphire earrings that instantly elevated her whole look.

Tonight, she was determined to make Castle Joyner see her in a new light.

—

At precisely 6:30 p.m., Noreen arrived at the gala.

As she approached the entrance, she caught sight of the man walking in just ahead of her—Henry.

When Henry turned and saw Noreen, his brow furrowed. She shouldn’t be here, he thought. Taking in her glamorous attire, he couldn’t help but sneer, lips curling in disdain.

What made her think she was worthy of a place at an event like this?