Vinson added, “But, you don’t have to worry as I have made some arrangements. As you are my guest and not a member of the Haut Monde, you don’t have to participate in the chess tournament.” However, Arielle was stunned. Hans Jewell? My student, Hans? Arielle had a talent for chess. During an international tournament, she had beaten Hans before. Ever since then, Hans pestered her to be his teacher until she had no choice but to take him in as her student.
So, it seems Hans is a renowned chess player in this country. What a coincidence. However, a few years have passed since then, I wonder if his skills have improved. Lifting her gaze, Arielle requested, “In that case, can I trouble you to let the organizers know that I want to participate in the chess tournament too? The round-robin format sounds exciting.” When Vinson saw the sparkle in Arielle’s eye, he raised his eyebrow in surprise. “Do you know how to play chess?” “A little bit.”
Vinson fell silent. During the acupuncture session and explosion incident, Arielle used the words “a little” too. Therefore, he would be a fool to believe Arielle when she used the words “a little” ever again. “Fine. Since you’re keen to play, I’ll let them know. Go ahead and have some hors d’oeuvres while you wait for me here. Just don’t stray away.” “Alright.” Arielle let out a mesmerizing smile, causing Vinson’s heart to race.
He assumed that he had a high level of self-restraint. But, when it came to Arielle, he just couldn’t keep himself in check. It’s better not to look at her so often. Averting his gaze, Vinson went off at once. The moment he left, many other guests approached Arielle to greet her. In a very short time, her hands were full of name cards. Meanwhile, she glanced at the chairman of Noah Group and realized that he was an elderly man. Silent the entire time, he didn’t greet anyone at all.
Anyone who approached him would be quickly dispatched after a quick exchange of pleasantries. That was the reason why Vinson didn’t introduce her to him. Instead of taking the initiative to meet him, she might as well wait for him to come over. However, she just wasn’t sure how skillful he was at chess and whether she was good enough to attract his attention. Just when Arielle was feeling conflicted, a few glamorous-looking socialites approached her with champagne glasses in their hands.
The leader among them, who was wearing a striking yellow gown, was the first to greet her, “Ms. Moore, it’s been a while. Do you still remember me?” Looking at her, Arielle couldn’t recall who she was. After apologizing cordially, she asked, “I have just returned to Jadeborough and don’t know many people.
May I know who you may be?” The lady thrust her chin proudly into the air to reveal a necklace filled with Swarovski diamonds. She elaborated, “My name is Kelsea Morgan and Carter is my cousin. We met at Shandie’s birthday party before this.” Arielle had a sudden realization. Since she is Carter’s cousin, I suppose she is a friend? Just when Arielle smiled, she heard Kelsea sneer. “It seems clothes do make the man.
The last time I saw you at the Southall residence, you smelled terrible, just like a beggar. But today, your beautiful outfit makes a world of difference. However, I still wonder if you have taken a proper bath? After staying in the village for so many years, had the stench gotten into your blood too?” Her snide remarks wiped the smile off Arielle’s face.
