The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 253

Noah scanned the event hall with a keen eye, analyzing every detail before turning to the others. “Once we’re inside, we’ll have to split up. Besides getting the knife back from her bag, there’s something else we need to do.”

Ethan’s eyes widened with anticipation. “What’s that?”

“We’re going to find those rich ladies,” Noah said, lowering his voice, “and expose Crystal for who she really is.”

…

At the entrance to the venue, the four boys straightened their jackets and walked in, heads held high and shoulders squared with confidence.

Their entrance drew a few curious glances, but dressed as they were and holding invitations, no one suspected a thing.

Inside, they immediately began scanning the crowd for Crystal.

After a few moments, Aiden nudged the group and pointed across the room. “There she is.”

The others followed his gaze, and sure enough, they spotted Crystal.

She was busy chatting up an elegantly dressed socialite, her face plastered with a forced, ingratiating smile.

Noah discreetly signaled the bodyguard to tail Crystal and wait for the right moment.

Ethan’s attention, however, was instantly snagged by the catering tables. His eyes lit up. “Wow, look at all that food.”

Noah shook his head at Ethan’s hungry expression, but he couldn’t help but smile. “Go ahead, but don’t forget why we’re here. And whatever you do, don’t let Crystal see you.”

“Don’t worry, I’m just grabbing a quick bite,” Ethan replied, nodding enthusiastically.

Another socialite chimed in, her tone just as dismissive. “Exactly. We’re very selective with our investments. Not just anyone gets our support.”

Crystal’s smile froze, but she pushed on. “Ladies, I truly believe this project will be a success. If you’d just give me a chance, I promise it would be worth your investment.”

But the two women remained unmoved.

Mrs. Olson lifted her chin a little higher and said coldly, “I’m not interested in your project.”

Crystal frowned. “But you haven’t even heard me out. How can you say you’re not interested?”

Mrs. Olson gave a derisive laugh. “I don’t need to hear it. You’re just the Thomson family’s adopted daughter, with nothing to your name. Why should I trust you? I don’t throw my money at people with no proven ability.”

The other woman let out a snicker. “Exactly. Who do you think you are? You really think a few words will convince us to work with you? Mrs. Olson, let’s not waste our time on her. She must be delusional.”