The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 494

They treated tonight’s gala with the utmost seriousness—facials, hair styling, dress fittings—the whole day had been a flurry of preparations.

Callie was practically bouncing with excitement. “I heard Lauretta’s coming tonight, and even Aurora—the top socialite herself—will be there! Both of them are my absolute idols. I have to get their autographs, no matter what!”

On any other day, Deanna would have scolded Callie for being so undignified. But tonight, she let it slide.

After all, the families invited to Mr. Burton’s event were sure to be at least as prominent as the O’Briens, if not more so. If Callie could manage to make a connection or two, it would only be a good thing.

Deanna stood before the mirror, scrutinizing her reflection as she issued her final instructions to Callie.

“Keep an eye on the Williams brothers tonight. The three of them—good family, strong character, no bad habits. If you could marry into the Burton family, you’d be blessed beyond measure. But if the Williams brothers aren’t interested, you can always try to get to know the Burton sons. I’ve heard Sherman and Karl are both still single—don’t miss your chance.”

Callie’s enthusiasm instantly dimmed. She had no interest in men. Her heart only skipped for larger-than-life women like Aurora and Lauretta—true winners in life.

Still, she didn’t dare defy her mother. Instead, her eyes gleamed with an idea.

“The head of the Williams family, Skyler, will be at the gala too. Mom, if you could get a conversation going with him, it might help me get to know the Williams family a little better. But you’ll have to dial it back a notch—don’t come on too strong. Men like gentle women, you know.”

Deanna instinctively glanced at herself in the mirror.

The woman looking back wasn’t young anymore, but she still had a certain allure. Unlike many women her age, she hadn’t put on weight—her figure remained elegant and well-proportioned. But her years of commanding authority showed in her serious, distant expression, making her seem a bit unapproachable.