Katelyn cast a quick glance at Vincent, then turned her gaze away. Just as she was about to speak, Vincent interrupted, saying, “It’s only natural for her to be in first place.”
He sounded so confident about Katelyn, leaving both Katelyn and Aimee momentarily stunned. They exchanged astonished glances, realizing that Vincent saw Katelyn as someone with extraordinary talent.
In that instant, someone suddenly walked up to Katelyn.
“Good evening, Miss Bailey,” the man said with a respectful nod.
Katelyn gave him a brief look, realizing he was unfamiliar to her. Though slightly confused, she responded with a polite smile, “Hello, can I help you with something?”
Reaching into his pocket, the man produced an envelope and handed it to her.
“Mr. Haynes has requested your presence at a banquet tomorrow night. Will you be able to attend?”
At the mention of Galen’s name, a wave of surprise swept through the crowd nearby. Eyes widened in awe, and every gaze locked onto the invitation now resting in Katelyn’s hand.
Everyone wanted it. After all, Galen was known as one of the most elusive figures in the industry. Receiving his invitation was a mark of distinction, a symbol of prestige.
And now, Katelyn held that coveted invitation. A quiet jealousy lingered in the air, but it wouldn’t change anything. Opportunities like this couldn’t be seized through envy alone.
Katelyn turned back to the man and said graciously, “Yes, I’m available. Please thank Mr. Haynes for me. I’ll be honored to attend.” The man nodded and quietly departed.
Almost instinctively, Katelyn’s eyes shifted toward where Galen was sitting. Their gazes met. With a soft, knowing smile, Galen gave a subtle nod. Katelyn returned the gesture, her nod a silent acknowledgment of gratitude.
Beside her, Aimee was practically buzzing with excitement, grabbing Katelyn’s arm in delight.
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“That’s incredible!”
Even Vincent, usually reserved, had a glint of admiration in his eyes. Katelyn smiled at Aimee, her voice calm.
“Let’s not get carried away.” She knew that opportunities like this were rare, but she wasn’t about to let the weight of the moment rattle her—not here, not in front of so many eyes at such a prestigious jewelry design competition.
Aimee regained her composure, her smile fading as she straightened. Katelyn watched her with quiet amusement.
Ashlyn leaned closer, her voice a soft murmur in Katelyn’s ear.
“I’ll be there tomorrow night, too. It’ll be nice to have company.”
Katelyn blinked, surprised by the unexpected revelation. She hadn’t pegged Ashlyn for someone with such connections. But as the thought settled in her mind, she realized it made perfect sense. The Marshall family’s influence in the jewelry world was unmatched. Knowing Mr. Haynes wasn’t a stretch.
Katelyn’s surprise melted into a smile.
“Great.”
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