Chapter 403
Cordy frowned at Patrick, who was grinning nonchalantly.
Ultimately, she didn’t leave and stood at his side to watch the rich and important people filing into the
ballroom.
Naturally, she saw Noel-who certainly rode a coattail well to be able to attend such a prestigious charity
ball.
In that sense, the same applied to Cordy, though it was more because of her personal grudge with the
host than other reasons.
That would be more or less the asame in Noel's case, since Jessica was really bringing out her
checkbook to buy Noel’s complete allegiance.
Suddenly, the lights in the ballroom dimmed while a spotlight illuminated the center of the stage;
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇteveryone turned towards it.
The emcee walked up above stage and spoke with succinct intonation, "Good evening, everyone.
Welcome to Stuart Holdings' annual charity ball! Thank you everyone for making time to attend this
honorable occasion despite your busy schedules."
The ballroom erupted with raucous clapping. Anyone who could host such a prestigious event naturally
stood amongst the best in showbiz, boasting popularity as well influence.
"And now, let's invite our host for the night-Miss Jesscia Stuart, for her opening speech! Please give
her a round of applause, everyone!"
Jessica strode up the stage in her red gown amidst the thunderous applause, walking up to the emcee
who passed the mic to her.
Jessica's smile was tactful, and every move was as confident as it was elegant.
"This is my first time hosting this annual charity ball, and I do apologize beforehand if our hospitality
proved insufficient. I would also like to thank my grandfather here for giving me the chance to learn and
grow independent, and I'm grateful to have his trust."
With that, she nodded and beamed at William below stage before turning towards her parents and
James. "I also would like to thank my immediate family for their support and care. They've helped me
gain the strength I need to make something for myself."
"Last but not least, I must thank the most important person in my life. If not for him staying by my side
at all times, I would never have the courage to host this charity ball independently. In fact, he was
willing to leave work for an entire month just to keep my company here in Rocktown."
Jessica never said a name, but everyone present knew exactly whom she was referring to too.
Patrick turned towards Cordy.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm
She appeared uninterested; noticing Patrick's gaze, she asked flatly without turning to him, "That's the
good part?"
"What, not good enough for you?" Patrick asked.
Cordy was completely apathetic while Patrick smiled a little gingerly, watching as Jessica turned
towards John and said, "Thank you, Johnny. Thank you for your care and understanding."
Jessica was clearly smitten, and everyone could see the love she bore for John in her eyes.
However, John was below stage, and the lights were too dim for anyone to see his reaction.
Jessica turned towards the crowd again. "As usual, all proceeds for this charity ball will be invested into
the nonprofit charity organizations under Stuart Holdings, with referees personally officiating the
procedures of your donations. Once again, thank you everyone for coming."
Jessica leaned forward slightly in a small bow, appearing elegant and affable as ever.
The entire ballroom erupted into yet another round of applause.
"And now, Stuart Holdings' annual charity ball officially begins!"
Crackers and poppers resounded overhead at those words, raining endless confetti down the hall.
A thrilling tune boomed from the speakers, spiking the excitement in the ballroom to new heights.