Contract Marriage with My Secret Partner in Crime-Chapter 34: Charity Gala

The entrance was adorned with a long red carpet, stretching out like a regal path leading into the grand hall.

The elegant golden glow of the chandeliers spilling through the tall glass windows made it clear this was no ordinary gathering.

Luxury cars arrived one by one, their doors swinging open to reveal guests in tailored suits and glittering gowns.

Zephany and Kendrick both exhaled in relief as they stepped out of their car. Surprisingly, there were no reporters in sight.

Cassius Varen had meticulously ensured the event would remain exclusive and private, away from the public’s prying eyes. Despite the allure of a high-profile charity gala, Cassius’s reputation for secrecy remained intact.

’No wonder people still have no clue what he looks like,’ Zephany thought, recalling how even after years of running Varen Enterprises, Cassius had successfully maintained his enigmatic image.

Rumors swirled about his appearance, but no confirmed photos existed. And every guest who attended his events knew better than to speak of him.

"Remember," Sophia’s voice crackled through their earpieces, "you’re the perfect couple today. Make it believable." She ended the call after giving them a reminder.

Zephany’s stomach twisted. The thought of having to pretend to be a devoted wife in front of powerful guests felt unbearable. She glanced at Kendrick, who looked equally uncomfortable. He forced a breath, his shoulders stiffening.

He turned to her, his hand hesitating before extending toward hers.

"Shall we?" His voice was calm, though the tightness in his jaw betrayed him.

Zephany swallowed. "Let’s get this over with."

She placed her hand in his, the warmth of his palm surprising her.

Together, they stepped onto the carpet, their forced smiles masking the unease beneath.

For today, they weren’t Zephany and Kendrick. They were Mr. and Mrs. Montclair.

---

Inside the venue, the atmosphere exudes elegance. Delicate floral arrangements lined the spacious hall, and elegant waiters carrying trays of champagne.

Only the wealthy and powerful had gathered here — influential businessmen, politicians, and renowned philanthropists.

The gala’s purpose was clear: to raise funds for Varen Enterprises’ chosen charities. The upcoming auction, featuring rare art pieces and luxury experiences, was already the talk of the day.

Of course, Mr. Lody was part of the crowd, busy chatting as people asked him about the masterpieces for today’s auction.

Kendrick hissed at the sight of him. There he was — the target of today’s mission. He was smiling now, happily mingling, but who knew how the people around him would look at him later once they knew the truth.

Zephany’s gaze shifted uneasily across the room. Although she had played the role of a journalist for years, mingling among celebrities and high-profile individuals, today was different. The weight of her fabricated identity pressed down on her.

She sighed in relief when she didn’t spot anyone from Air Media. No Pia. That meant she wouldn’t have to explain why she was suddenly Mrs. Montclair.

Yet, as she scanned the room, she failed to realize how close she had unconsciously leaned against Kendrick. Her arm brushed lightly against his, her hand still enclosed in his.

Kendrick, on the other hand, was just as lost in thought. While pretending to be the perfect husband, his mind raced. How would he manage to slip away for the mission without raising suspicion? He knew Zephany would eventually busy herself with her work, but the timing had to be perfect.

Neither of them noticed how naturally they stood together, their closeness no longer a strained act.

Across the hall, Cassius Varen made his entrance, his presence commanding yet effortlessly elegant. Dressed in a tailored black suit, his signature dark hair slicked back, he moved with a deliberate grace. The crowd murmured in fascination, many stealing glances at the elusive man who had carefully guarded his identity from the public.

Cassius’s sharp eyes landed on Zephany and Kendrick. A smirk tugged at his lips.

"Perfect," he muttered.

Sophia, walking beside him, nodded with a faint trace of amusement.

"They certainly look the part," she added dryly.

Cassius chuckled. "They’re quite convincing, don’t you think? Almost like a real couple."

The murmurs grew louder as Cassius approached. Zephany and Kendrick quickly straightened, their hands still joined as though clinging to the fragile illusion of their bond.

"Mrs. Montclair, Mr. Montclair," Cassius greeted, his tone teasing. "Nice to see you two getting along so well."

Zephany’s cheeks flushed at the unfamiliar title. She opened her mouth, but Kendrick responded first.

"Cassius, thank you for inviting us," Kendrick said with practiced politeness, though his jaw remained tense.

"My pleasure," Cassius replied, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "And how’s life at the apartment? Settling in nicely, I presume?"

Kendrick forced a tight-lipped smile. "We’re managing."

Cassius’s grin widened. "That’s good to hear. I must say, the two of you certainly look the part. If I didn’t know better, I’d believe you were really in love."

Zephany gave a short laugh, the sound brittle. "We’re... adjusting."

Though, honestly, she wanted to punch him and tell him, "Stop with the teasing!"

Cassius nodded knowingly. "Well, I look forward to seeing just how well you two continue this little charade."

The host then stepped onto the stage, microphone in hand. With a warm smile, he welcomed the guests, thanking them for their support and generosity. He highlighted the causes the auction proceeds would benefit, eliciting polite applause from the crowd.

Zephany seized the opportunity. "I’ll be busy with work," she whispered to Kendrick. "I need to cover the event."

Kendrick nodded. "Go ahead. I’ll be around.

Relief washing over him. The less time he spent maintaining their facade, the better.

She pulled a small camera from her purse, careful to remain discreet. Avoiding Cassius’s curious gaze, she slipped through the crowd, snapping pictures of the auction items and capturing candid moments of the guests.

Kendrick watched her go, his shoulders relaxing.

Finally, a chance to slip away.

He scanned the room. Cassius was quickly surrounded by influential guests eager to court his favor.

Kendrick took one last glance at his wife—or rather, his pretend wife—before slipping quietly through the crowd.