Chapter 49: A World Apart
"Getting ready for the event." Thea replied, applying a final coat of lip gloss.
"Which dress did you wear for today’s event?"
Thea put the phone against the dressing table, giving Charlotte a clear view of her outfit. "Like it?" She asked, striking a pose, eager for her friend’s approval.
"Hmm... It’s looking pretty on you.." Charlotte replied, her voice filled with sincerity.
"Okay, get ready, I won’t bother you now." Charlotte continued, already starting to wrap up the call.
"Hello, Charlotte, listen!" Thea said, trying to stop her, but it was too late.Charlotte had already hung up the phone, leaving Thea frustrated.
"This girl is so impatient." Thea sighed, rolling her eyes in exasperation, shaking her head with a chuckle. She couldn’t help but smile, knowing that was just Charlotte being her usual, hurried self.
Julian Sawyer, Savannah’s father, is the proud owner of Sawyer Enterprises, a modest yet respected business company in the region. Although Sawyer Enterprises may not be as large or influential as some of its competitors, it has carved out a niche for itself through its commitment to quality, integrity, and community involvement.
Established over two decades ago, Sawyer Enterprises has grown steadily under Julian’s leadership, earning a reputation for reliability and excellence in its field. The company’s focus on building strong relationships with its clients and partners has helped it to maintain a loyal customer base and attract new business opportunities.
Despite not being a household name, Sawyer Enterprises is widely recognized and respected within the local business community. Julian’s dedication to his craft and his passion for entrepreneurship have earned him the admiration of his peers and the gratitude of his clients.
Sawyer Enterprises may not be the biggest or the most glamorous company, but it is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a commitment to values. As a pillar of the community, it continues to thrive and make a positive impact on the lives of those around it.
Thea had previously booked a cab and, after giving the driver the address, set out from the venue. Savannah’s birthday party was being held at the prestigious Bellvue Manor, a grand hotel she had previously heard of from Charlotte. This was the first time she was attending a birthday party of someone outside of her close-knit friend circle, and she was quite nervous.
Her friend circle was small, and within it, Charlotte was the only one from a wealthy background. The others would typically invite her to their birthday celebrations at their homes, which were much more low-key affairs.
"Don’t be nervous,Thea, Everything will be okay." she consoled herself, taking a deep breath. Besides, Ryder was also invited, and she hoped he would make an appearance at the party.
As the car stopped in front of the hotel, Thea paid the driver and approached the entrance. A security check awaited her, and she had to produce her invitation card before entering the grand hotel. Once cleared, she stepped into the opulent lobby of the Bellvue Manor.
The interior decoration was breathtaking. The walls were adorned with intricate gold leaf patterns, and crystal chandeliers hung majestically from the high ceiling. The floor was made of polished marble, reflecting the vibrant colors of the elaborate flower arrangements. Plush velvet drapes framed the windows, allowing natural light to pour in and highlight the lavish decor. The atmosphere was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the soft hum of gentle chatter.Thea couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the grandeur surrounding her.
When she entered the grand hall, she was surrounded by a multitude of people adorned in aristocratic attire, exuding an air of refinement and sophistication. She understood that these individuals were distinguished figures, and she couldn’t help but feel a sense of intimidation.
Her eyes scanned the room, searching for Savannah, but she was nowhere to be found. Thea’s gaze darted from one face to another, hoping to catch a glimpse of her host, but to no avail.
"Can you please tell me where Miss Sawyer is?" Thea asked a staff member who was passing by.
"That way, miss." the staff replied, pointing discreetly in a particular direction.
Thea thanked the staff and made her way in the direction indicated, her heart beating slightly faster with anticipation. As she navigated through the crowd, she couldn’t shake off the feeling of insecurity that had settled in. Some of the guests were casting strange glances her way, their eyes lingering on her for a moment too long.
She quietly made her way through the throng of people, her eyes fixed on the path ahead, trying to blend in and avoid drawing attention to herself. The opulent surroundings and the sea of aristocratic faces seemed to close in around her, making her feel like an outsider in a world that was far removed from her own.
Thea finally spotted Savannah in the grand hall, surrounded by a group of people. She made her way through the crowd.While she approached Savannah, she smiled warmly and wished her a happy birthday, handing her the gift she had carefully chosen.
"When did you arrive?" she asked, her voice friendly and welcoming.
"Just a few minutes ago." Thea replied, feeling a sense of relief at having finally found her host.
Savannah then turned to her mother, who was standing beside her, and introduced them. "Mother, this is Thea, Ryder’s friend. Thea,this is my mother."
Thea greeted Savannah’s mother, Alexia, with a polite "Good evening, Madam Sawyer."
However, Alexia’s expression turned scrutinizing as she looked at Thea. "You’re Ryder’s friend?"
She nodded, feeling a sense of unease.
Alexia’s gaze turned condescending. "Do you think you can simply call her by her name? She is much higher in status than you."
Savannah intervened. "Mom, it’s okay. I only asked her to call me Savannah. She’s Ryder’s friend, so she’s also my friend."
But Alexia continued, her words dripping with malice. "Savannah, you should consider their status before making friends with them."
Thea felt a sting from Alexia’s words and replied, "I’m sorry, Madam. I shouldn’t have called her by her name."
She had heard from Charlotte previously that there were some people who were mean, and now she was experiencing it firsthand. The encounter left her feeling uncomfortable and out of place.
Alexia left the place sneering and went to greet other guests."Thea,don’t mind her words. I am truly sorry for my mother’s behavior." Savannah said.
"It’s okay, Miss Sawyer. You don’t have to feel sorry about it."Thea said, trying to hide her emotions. Throughout her life, no one had spoken to her like this, not even Ryder’s family.
As they were talking, Savannah’s eyes shined as she saw a figure approaching them.
"Happy birthday, Savannah." Ryder greeted, his eyes fixed on her.
Hearing the familiar voice, Thea turned to face him. Ryder hadn’t seen her yet, as he was still looking at Savannah.
"Thanks, Ryder.. " Savannah replied with a smile.Ryder then noticed Thea standing beside Savannah, and his expression changed.
"What are you doing here?" he asked, his tone neutral."Ryder, she is your friend so I invited her. " Savannah replied before Thea could respond. She then nodded at Ryder and excused herself to greet other guests.
Ryder’s gaze lingered on Savannah for a moment before turning back to Thea.
"You didn’t tell me that you would be coming here." Ryder said, his voice laced with a hint of curiosity.
"Miss Sawyer invited me previously.I thought it wasn’t good to turn down her invitation, so I came."
"Ryder, did you miss me?" a voice called out, interrupting their conversation.
Thea turned to see John approaching them, a warm smile on his face. "Oh, you’re here too, Thea. How are you?" he asked, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
"I’m good, thanks. How are you?" Thea replied, smiling back at him.
"My day is going good." John said, his smile broadening.
Just then, Savannah called out, "Ryder, can you please come here?"
Ryder excused himself and made his way to Savannah, who was standing across the room. As they stood together, it was hard not to notice how perfectly they complemented each other. Savannah was wearing a stunning red gown that hugged her curves, her dark hair styled in loose waves. Ryder, on the other hand, looked dashing in his tailored black tuxedo, his eyes shining with warmth as he smiled at Savannah.
"They’re looking like a perfect match." someone from the crowd whispered, and Thea couldn’t help but agree as she gazed in their direction. They did look good together - like two pieces of a puzzle that fit seamlessly together
"So, you’re studying in which University?"
"Empire City University." Thea answered.
"Which year?" John pressed on.
"First Year student.." she replied giving him a smile.
