Chapter 787

Harrison sat in serene silence within the lavish dressing room. The makeup artist carefully swept brushes across her porcelain skin, each stroke enhancing her ethereal beauty. Her complexion glowed with natural radiance that no cosmetic could truly improve.

Victoria entered with little Charlotte, whose face lit up as she dashed toward her mother. "Mama! You're the prettiest lady in the whole world! Well...you always are, but today you're extra special pretty!"

Charlotte's adorable compliment melted Harrison's heart. She leaned down to press a kiss against her daughter's flushed cheek. "I've been counting the minutes until I could see you, my darling."

Victoria approached with a warm expression. "Congratulations, my dear."

Harrison returned the smile gratefully. "These past weeks have been so hectic. Thank you for watching over Charlotte."

Victoria's eyes shone with grandmotherly affection as she gazed at the child. "This precious girl carries the Falcon bloodline. Caring for her isn't duty - it's my greatest joy."

Charlotte giggled with delight.

"Who could have imagined Henry and Isabella would officially welcome you as their goddaughter?" Victoria continued. "The bond between our families grows stronger than ever. My heart overflows with happiness for you."

The sincerity in Victoria's voice filled Harrison with warmth. She offered a soft,

Meanwhile, in the grand ballroom glittering with crystal chandeliers, Henry and Isabella stood together in perfect harmony. Henry looked dashing in his bespoke midnight suit, exuding quiet authority. Isabella dazzled in a flowing silver gown that accentuated her timeless elegance. They made a striking pair.

Several executives clustered around them, offering congratulations. "Mr. and Mrs. Lancaster, what an honor to gain such an accomplished goddaughter."

"We've heard remarkable things about Ms. Whitmore. She's fortunate to have your patronage."

Isabella's lips curved knowingly. "Harrison is family now. Anyone who disrespects her answers to us."

"Naturally! We consider ourselves privileged to know her."

"Perhaps she might join us for cocktails when her schedule permits."

The lavish celebration clearly demonstrated the Lancasters' esteem for their new goddaughter. In this world of power and privilege, everyone sought to align themselves with Harrison's rising star.

Rosalind arrived with impeccable timing. As Harrison's closest confidante, she wouldn't have missed this milestone for anything.

She brought Lillian along. Three years had transformed the girl into a stunning young woman, her striking features and cool demeanor turning heads. The Sinclair genes were undeniable - her brother Everett was campus royalty, and Lillian reigned as the university's undisputed beauty.

Rosalind smiled. "Lillian, it's been ages since you've seen Harrison, hasn't it?"

Lillian nodded. "Far too long."

"She talks about you constantly. We'll make sure you two have proper time to reconnect."

"I'd like that."

A sudden murmur rippled through the crowd. Someone whispered, "Look - Ms. Lancaster has arrived!"

Isabella made her entrance with Eleanor at her side.

Though Harrison was tonight's honored guest, Isabella commanded equal attention as the Lancaster heiress. With Harrison's new status, the unspoken tension between these two powerful women electrified the room.

This gala was, in truth, a stage for their quiet rivalry.

All eyes turned as Isabella appeared.

She wore a sleek crimson gown that hugged her curves perfectly. Her glossy chestnut waves cascaded over bare shoulders, drawing every gaze.

Eleanor looked equally refined in an emerald gown that complemented her graceful bearing.

Together, they made a breathtaking entrance.

One executive near Henry nodded knowingly. "Ah, Ms. Lancaster graces us with her presence."