Chapter 72
Chapter 72:
With hopeful eyes, Maisie glanced at Ryan, filled with sweet expectations. How would Ryan introduce her? As his lover? His future wife?
Yet, Ryan’s thoughts were clouded by Jenessa’s unexpected absence. In his memory, Jenessa was too committed to disappear without reason, especially at such a critical time. He wondered if Rohan had located her.
His irritation growing, Ryan coldly responded to the inquisitive crowd, “She is merely my companion for this evening p>
One guest, eyebrows arched in amusement, pressed further.
“Just a companion? It’s rare to see you with a lady. Surely more? Is she your girlfriend p>
Maisie clung tighter to Ryan’s arm, sensing his growing impatience with the gossip. Why couldn’t Ryan declare their relationship openly, just this once?
Yet, Ryan remained detached.
“Apologies, but tonight is for business. I prefer not to discuss my personal life p>
His aloof response curtailed any further prying. An enterprising guest shifted the conversation, smiling.
“Then, Mr. Haynes, may we step into the garden to discuss our forthcoming project p>
“Of course,” Ryan consented, turning to Maisie.
“Please, wait here for me p>
Maisie’s eyes widened, stunned. She had not anticipated being left alone. She had hoped this evening would affirm their relationship in the public eye. Yet here was Ryan, distant and dismissive, as if she meant nothing at all.
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Feeling disgruntled, Maisie pouted and gripped his arm tighter, pleading, “Ryan, please stay. I don’t want to be left here alone p>
Before she could finish her plea, Ryan swiftly pulled away.
“Maisie, this is not the time for such behavior. I’m here on business. Please, don’t interfere p>
Confronted by his sternness, Maisie’s face flushed with embarrassment as she released her hold. She watched him stride away, not once glancing back, and a profound sense of abandonment settled in her heart. She knew she shouldn’t be the type of partner who impeded her man’s career ambitions.
With a heavy heart, she decided to let go of this issue.
As she lingered alone, a new voice reached her ears.
“Maisie? Isn’t that Maisie Powell, the supermodel p>
Maisie turned to find a group of elegantly dressed women approaching, recognition lighting up their faces.
“That’s definitely her. She was just with Mr. Haynes p>
“Oh, I saw them together in the news just recently p>
“They reported that they’ve been childhood friends. It must be true for Mr. Haynes to bring her to such a pivotal event p>
These comments lifted Maisie’s spirits. Without her having to confirm anything, her connection with Ryan was naturally becoming a topic of interest.
“Yes, I am Maisie Powell. It’s lovely to meet you all,” she responded, her voice warm as she extended her hand.
Grasping her hand, Paola Smith introduced herself with an enthusiastic smile.