Love and Devotion No Longer His to Claim (Angela and Dexter) novel Chapter 341

The company's anniversary celebration was approaching, and Clara had called to report on the progress of the venue decorations.

Angela held her phone slightly further away to see the screen better. "Tell them to use less flowers and plants. We're celebrating an anniversary, not opening a flower shop. And can we change the balloon colors? There's too much red—it's too harsh and will look tacky in photos."

Clara listened carefully, giving instructions to the staff as she went. The call lasted over 20 minutes before she finally asked about the guest list.

She wanted to know who Angela wanted to invite from her side.

By then, the seafood pasta had arrived, topped with two plump, orange shrimp that looked incredibly tantalizing.

Angela took a bite before answering, "Let me think… Then, Mr. Callum Snowden, for sure. Also, Finn, Mia, Madam Fiona, and Mr. Bamford Sr. That's all."

Across from her, Dexter let out two pointed coughs.

Only then did Angela realize her oversight. With a sigh of resignation, she said, "And add Dexter to the list too."

Only then did a certain someone look satisfied.

"I'm your husband in name. Aren't you afraid people will gossip and question your integrity if you don't invite me?" Dexter huffed, looking as if he couldn't believe how underappreciated he was.

The exasperated Angela let out a long, weary sigh.

Truth be told, the situation between them had completely flipped.

At first, if they had divorced, Dexter's reputation would have taken the bigger hit. But now, it was her image that needed protecting.

She had just solidified her position in the company. If news of a divorce broke out suddenly, the consequences would be disastrous. She still had to maintain appearances, at least a little.

"I'll make sure you get a front-row seat," Angela said with a teasing smile. "Since you're so handsome, you'll be perfect for boosting our event's popularity."

Dexter said nothing, but a bitter feeling lingered in his heart.

His looks were undeniably outstanding. If not, he wouldn't have been able to attract so many women.

Angela had probably once been among them, captivated by his appearance, but now, she had come to her senses completely.

No matter how well he groomed himself or how much more attractive he became, she wouldn't even spare him a glance anymore.

In fact, her own style had become increasingly androgynous. She was always in serious business attire, her makeup growing lighter and lighter, and her feminine charm becoming almost nonexistent.

The dress, displayed on a mannequin, was a strapless gown adorned with pearl tassels at the shoulders. The fishtail skirt was embellished with tiny pearls and diamonds.

It came with a complete set of accessories—a diamond tiara, earrings, a necklace, and a pair of sparkling diamond heels.

Each piece was so breathtaking on its own that even Angela felt a bit tempted.

"Ms. Graham, Mr. Bamford said that if you don't sign for them, I'll have to throw them away," the store assistant said awkwardly.

Exasperated, Angela couldn't help but want to laugh. "Fine, I'll sign for them."

…

At 7:30 pm the next day, Angela arrived at Graham Group right on time.

"You're not wearing the gown?" Dexter was already there. The moment he saw her, he shot up from his seat, his expression shifting.

Angela sighed, lifting the shopping bag in her hand. "I brought it, didn't I? I have to welcome the guests first. Showing up in a flashy gown now would be ridiculous. We're not short on event hostesses, after all."