Chapter 638

Nathaniel's gaze lingered on Harrison as he extended his arm. "Allow me to escort you inside."

His eagerness to accompany her to the prestigious Zenith Gala was palpable.

Harrison's lips curved into a subtle, knowing smile. "That won't be necessary. I have my own arrangements."

Isabella let out a derisive laugh. "Oh, please. This isn't some charity fundraiser. Only the elite are welcome here. What makes you think you belong?"

Both Isabella and Arabella exchanged skeptical glances. Even Nathaniel had his doubts—though he was prepared to use his influence to secure her entry.

Harrison reached into her clutch and produced an embossed invitation. "I believe this answers your question."

Isabella's jaw slackened. Arabella blinked rapidly, as if the card might vanish if she looked away. "How did you—? You're not on the Forbes list!"

Arabella scoffed, recovering first. "Impossible. The only woman making headlines tonight is Jolin, the pharmaceutical magnate. Unless you're her personal assistant?"

Harrison's expression remained unreadable, though amusement flickered in her eyes. "So you're aware Jolin will be attending."

"Obviously," Isabella sneered. "She's the most powerful woman in the industry. Since you're the so-called 'wonder doctor,' I assume you fetch her coffee?"

Harrison's assistant clenched her fists, barely restraining herself. "You—"

A slight shake of Harrison's head silenced her.

There was no need to engage. The truth would reveal itself soon enough.

Nathaniel stepped closer, his voice low and earnest. "Jolin will be here. Walk in with me. We have much to discuss."

Harrison inclined her head politely. "Another time, perhaps. I have my own agenda tonight."

Without another word, she turned toward the grand entrance.

"Harrison—" Nathaniel called after her, but she didn't look back.

Isabella smirked, looping her arm through Arabella's. "This should be entertaining."

Arabella nodded. "If she causes a scene, security will toss her out before she takes two steps."

Isabella shot Nathaniel a pointed look. "Forget her. She's beneath you. Let's enjoy the evening."

Nathaniel ignored her completely, striding ahead with Dominic shadowing him.

Isabella's face darkened with irritation.

Arabella squeezed her arm. "Relax. You're the Lancaster heiress now. Tonight is your moment to shine—and her moment to crumble."

A slow, vindictive smile spread across Isabella's lips.

Of course.

If Harrison wanted to embarrass herself in front of high society, Isabella would ensure she did so spectacularly.

"Let's go."

The Zenith Gala was a glittering sea of power and privilege—CEOs, investors, and industry titans mingling beneath crystal chandeliers. Nathaniel, impeccably dressed in a bespoke black tuxedo, stood among them, exchanging quiet words with a group of influential executives.