Chapter 220

Serena's POV

The guest list for the Thorne Foundation's annual gala reads like a Who's Who of Oregon

and Washington society - campany executives, media moguls, and old money families who've shaped the city for generations.

The crowd's attention shifts as Lucas enters with Rachel Thorne. The buzz is understandable - after all, her grandfather Clarence had specifically chosen her to chair this year's gala, marking her official debut into the philanthropic scene.

A wave of appreciative murmurs follows them as they make their rounds. Lucas looks impeccable in his tuxedo. He has that rare quality that commands attention without seeking it, the kind of presence that makes even jaded socialites turn their heads.

Rachel stands out in a crimson gown, clearly dressed to make an impression.

"Getting under your skin?" Atticus asks beside me, watching them work the room.

"Not in the least," I reply honestly. "I genuinely hope they're happy together."

"That's disappointing to hear," Atticus says with a wry smile.

They approach us then - Lucas and Rachel. When my eyes meet Lucas's, the air seems to crackle with unspoken tension. The silence stretches between us like a taught wire.

Rachel breaks it first. "Well, cousin, looks like you got the jump on me," she says to Atticus.

"Oh?" Atticus plays along.

"I've been trying to get Serena for our foundation's initiatives for months," Rachel says with practiced grace. "Imagine my surprise when I heard about your partnership."

"Come on, Rachel," Atticus replies, his casual tone carrying an edge. "You've got Lucas Harrington backing you - that's worth more than half of Manhattan's capital combined. I'm just getting my feet wet in the foundation world. Don't shut me out before I've even started."

"Don't sell yourself short," Rachel says, her hand resting on Lucas's arm with calculated familiarity. "We're all on the same team here. Lucas, let's grab some champagne and toast to their success."

I maintain my composure as I watch her subtle power play. Lucas remains stoic, showing no intention of participating in the suggested toast.

The awkwardness is interrupted by Atticus. "I believe Mr. Harrington is aware that Serena's avoiding alcohol on doctor's orders."

I catch Lucas's sharp glance at Atticus.

"Besides," Atticus continues smoothly, "you've got a full house of donors to charm tonight, Rachel. Don't waste time on family."

"Fair point," Rachel concedes. "Lucas, we should check in with the board members. They're waiting by the silent auction."

I watch Lucas's jaw tighten almost imperceptibly before he turns away with Rachel. His gaze lingers on me, taking in my easy rapport with Atticus. I feel very uncomfortable, as if I had been unfaithful. Even though I try to push these thoughts away, this darkness keeps weighing on my mind.

As they walked away, Atticus caught me at the bar. "Talk about missed opportunities."

I took a sip of my sparkling water, keeping my tone casual. "What do you mean?"

"I thought Lucas might pull a Graduate moment back there - you know, sweep you off your feet, leave everyone shocked." He smirked, referencing the classic American film.

I gave him my analyst stares. I found his jokes boring, and they even made me a bit angry.

Atticus wasn't deterred. "Had my money on him losing his cool tonight. Thought he might channel his inner romantic hero and whisk you away from all this Thorne family drama. Would've made my day."

"You clearly don't know Lucas very well," I said, my voice cold.

"Got to hand it to him - man's got more restraint than I gave him credit for."

"And you're overestimating my significance," I replied, my tone neutra. Just stating facts - he'd overvalued my position in Lucas Harrington's portfolio, so to speak.

"Come on, Serena," Atticus said in drawl. "Take a good look at the guy's hands. He's gripping the glass like he's trying to crush it."

I was surprised by the details he described, I didn't want to believe what he said, I didn't want to give myself hope. My eyes flickered briefly toward Lucas before I caught myself.

"I need some air," I set down my glass, ready to escape to the terrace.

"Hold up," Atticus called out. "The real show's about to start."

I shot him a skeptical look, but he maintained that smug smile.

Eventually, I stayed, watching the power players work the room. Including Nina, of course, working the crowd like she was running for office.

The ballroom lights dimmed to that perfect charity gala ambiance, focusing everyone's attention on center stage where a spotlight carved through the sophisticated gloom.

Ryan's successor stepped forward with confident smile: "Distinguished guests, good evening. Thank you all for taking time from your busy schedules to join us at the Thorne Group's Annual Charity Gala."

Applause rippled through the crowd like a wave.

"Please welcome our hostess for the evening, Miss Rachel Thorne, to deliver the opening address."

Rachel emerged in stiletto heels, taking her place with the practiced grace of someone who'd grown up in the spotlight. When she took the mic, every socialite in the room leaned forward.

"This marks my first year chairing our foundation's gala," she began. "Any shortcomings in tonight's arrangements are entirely my responsibility. I must first thank my grandfather for this opportunity to prove myself. Thank you for believing in me."

She directed a perfect bow toward Clarence Thorne, who was holding court at his table.

"I'm also grateful to my parents and brother for their guidance. Your support has made this possible."

Another camera-ready bow.

"Finally, I need to thank someone special. Without his constant support, I wouldn't have found the confidence to take on this responsibility. He even put his merger deals on hold to spend a month with me in Portland." The room knew exactly who she meant - every gossip column in the city had covered Lucas's absence.

I felt Atticus studying my reaction. Without turning, I asked flatly, "This is your big show?"

"Not dramatic enough for you?" he countered.

I kept my face as blank as a new poker player.

Atticus let out a low chuckle.

I watched Rachel turn toward Lucas's table. "Lucas, thank you. Your support means everything."

The raw emotion in Rachel's voice was impossible to miss - as genuine as anything could be in this room full of practiced performances. The strategic lighting kept Lucas's reaction hidden.

"As always, every dollar raised tonight will go directly to the Thorne Foundation's charitable initiatives, with full oversight from our partners at Milano. Thank you all for being here."

Rachel gave a final graceful nod to the crowd, prompting another wave of appreciative applause.

"And now, I officially declare the Thorne Group's Annual Charity Gala... open!"