Chapter 0255

Hannah

The days leading up to the charity gala flew by faster than I anticipated. I found myself by Noah's side frequently during my preparations, our newfound closeness a strange, unexpected comfort after everything. Surprisingly, we fell into an easy rhythm, working on business and gala preparations together.

“What do you think of these centerpieces?” I asked one afternoon, holding up two floral arrangements the gala coordinator had sent.

I half-expected Noah to grunt in response, but he didn't. Instead, he studied them intently, his brow furrowed in concentration.

Finally, he replied, “I prefer the one on the left. It’s more elegant.”

I was surprised he cared, but nodded, pleased. “My thoughts exactly. I think it’ll complement the table settings perfectly.”

As the days passed, however, Noah became increasingly preoccupied with private meetings and personal matters. Our time together dwindled, and I missed his presence more than I cared to admit. Eventually, our interactions were reduced to hurried breakfasts and, if we were lucky, a cup of tea before bed.

One morning, while reviewing RSVPs in my office, a letter arrived that made my heart skip a beat. I recognized the envelope immediately as the Luna Queen’s personal stationery, embossed with her seal. She had replied to my invitation!

With trembling hands, I opened the envelope:

“Dear Luna Hannah,

I would be delighted to attend your charity gala. The cause is admirable, and I look forward to enjoying the opera performance. I especially look forward to seeing your expertise, which I have heard much about lately, in person.

Warmest regards, Luna Alanna”

I squealed with excitement, startling Viona, who was working nearby.

“What is it?” she asked, peering over my shoulder. “Did Noah finally remember your anniversary or something?”

I rolled my eyes. “No, even better. The Luna Queen is coming to the gala! She actually said yes!”

Viona’s eyes widened. “Holy shit, Hannah. You really did it. No offense, but I didn’t think she’d actually come.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence,” I said dryly, but I was too excited to be truly annoyed. “This is huge, Vi. If I can impress her at the gala, it could open so many doors.”

The thought of joining the Luna Council returned. With the impending divorce, this boost would be much needed. And yes, there would still be a divorce; there was no love between Noah and me, even if we had worked together seamlessly these past few weeks. None.

Viona nodded, her expression serious. “Just be careful, okay? Don’t let it get to your head.”

I smirked. “I wouldn’t dream of it.”

The day of the gala arrived quickly, and I found myself at the opera house that morning, overseeing last-minute preparations. The reception hall buzzed with activity; staff bustled about hanging decorations and arranging tables. Everything was coming together perfectly, and I couldn’t have been more excited.

“Excuse me, Luna Hannah,” a young woman approached timidly, gesturing to a large swan ice sculpture. “Where would you like this?”

I smiled reassuringly. “Place it in the center of the main table, please. And make sure it’s angled so guests can see it from all sides.”

The young woman nodded and hurried off. I returned to my checklist. “Ice sculpture, check,” I murmured, ticking the box. “Now, I just need to check on the hors d’oeuvres…”

“Luna Hannah!” Another voice called, and I turned to see a staff member with a florist. “The florist is here with the bouquets.”