When His Mask Cracks novel Chapter 10

Bernard unfastened his seatbelt and noticed Bernice zoning out next to him. "What are you staring at, Bernice?"

Bernice said with uncertainty, "I think I saw Andrew just now, but I could be mistaken."

Bernard sneered. "The Thompson family is hosting the charity banquet. Everyone attending commands influence and respect. There's no way that loser would be invited."

Bernice, convinced, didn't dwell on it further.

"Once we're inside, I'll introduce you to some important clients. They're all big shots. Landing a deal with them would solve our problems.

"I had a friend look into the charity banquet, and it seems someone from the Thompson family will be hosting it. We might get a chance to meet them. With my connections, we might even secure investment for your new project."

Bernice was visibly thrilled. "That will be great. Thanks, Mr. Clarke."

Initially troubled by many project cancellations, Bernice now felt confident she could overcome her challenges with Bernard's help.

Hearing the gratitude, Bernard wrapped his arm around Bernice's waist. "Let's drop the formalities between us."

Bernice didn't mind Bernard's intimate gesture. They entered the venue like a couple.

The lobby where the banquet was held was divided into multiple zones. Most people socialized in the main area, exchanging pleasantries.

Andrew, unused to such social gatherings, wandered around until he found a quiet corner and settled in.

Suddenly, Andrew felt something in his pocket. He pulled it out to find a bracelet. Once he took it out, he realized it was a bracelet.

A wave of nostalgia washed over him as he recognized it. It was the birthday gift he'd bought Bernice a week ago, now seemingly pointless.

Andrew approached a staff member and handed the bracelet over. "Can you auction this item for me? The money raised will go to the charity."

Instead of letting the bracelet gather dust in a corner, Andrew saw an opportunity to maximize its value.

The staff member, following protocol, wanted to take Andrew's information, but Andrew declined. He didn't plan to gain any credit from it.

The venue buzzed to life as more attendees arrived. Andrew, tucked away in a corner, attracted some curious glances. However, being an unfamiliar face, no one approached him for conversation.

Suddenly, Bernice's expression darkened as she spotted Andrew. "Andrew is here," she remarked with a frown.

Bernard, surprised by Andrew's presence, raised an eyebrow and approached him. Bernice, however, held him back. "Forget it, Bernard. He's not worth our time."

"Ugh! I'm just disgusted to see a loser here. He's clearly after you, Bernice. We need to nip this in the bud before he becomes a nuisance."

Bernice, swayed by Bernard's words, released her hold.

Bernard coldly confronted Andrew. "Are you still not giving up? Bernice has divorced you, and there's no chance of you two reconciling. Get the hint and scram before it gets ugly."

Andrew bristled at the sight of the duo, especially after Bernard's absurd pronouncement. Even Bernice's silence spoke volumes of their united, albeit ridiculous, front.

Andrew coolly countered, "Don't be presumptuous. I'm not here because of you. If there's nothing else, just stay out of my way."

"Huh, you're the stubborn one, aren't you?" Bernard scoffed, refusing to believe Andrew. "Don't delude yourself. Do you even belong here? I'm starting to doubt if you even have the invitation to attend. Did you sneak in?"

Invitation?

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