Chapter 435

They walked to a corner, laughing together.

That world felt too distant for them.

It was fun to imagine.

But reality was, the prince already had a designated dance partner.

At exactly eight o'clock.

The portly mayor waddled onto the podium.

Reporters raised their cameras, snapping pictures frantically.

The mayor began with a passionate speech.

He spoke of the city's history and his love for the land.

Finally, he got to the main point.

"The masquerade ball is a tradition of our celebration." He smiled at the crowd below. "I'm deeply moved to see so many masked citizens."

His tone shifted abruptly.

"But while we celebrate, we must not forget those who are suffering. The northern floods have left many homeless."

He waved his plump hand and announced, "This year, we're changing the rules. Ladies will take the stage, and gentlemen will bid for a dance partner. All proceeds will go to the disaster area!"

His voice echoed across the square through the microphone.

This exciting game instantly ignited the crowd.

The girls were eager to participate.

The men found it both charitable and entertaining.

Deafening applause and cheers erupted.

"Let's go too!" The receptionist girl excitedly pulled Vivian Bennett. "Helping the disaster area is our duty."

Vivian let herself be dragged along.

She knew the girl was just in it for the fun.

Staff members arranged them into a line.

Each was given a rose.

"Do your best to show your charm. Give the rose to the gentleman who wins your bid."

Vivian inexplicably thought of ancient courtesan scenes.

They were near the front of the line.

Soon, it was the receptionist girl's turn.

She cheerfully ran onto the stage.

A man wearing a wolf king mask won her bid for 500 euros.

The two immediately chatted animatedly, completely forgetting about Vivian.

Vivian felt both annoyed and amused.

A staff member urged her onto the stage.

She struck a casual pose.

She was just participating anyway.

She secretly guessed her own worth.

Seeing the previous girls go for between 300 and 500 euros.

She should be around the same.

"50 euros." Someone in the crowd shouted a bid.

Vivian nearly choked.

Starting that low?

The price slowly increased to 400 euros.

She breathed a sigh of relief.

At least it wasn't too embarrassing.