Chapter 8. You will eat them all up

That morning, Clarice stood in front of the large mirror in her hotel room, looking at herself thoughtfully, assessing her elegant reflection ready for the big event. The navy blue silk dress she had chosen looked just right on her, exuding a sense of grace and authoritativeness. Nervousness and excitement mixed together, bringing out the tense moments leading up to the important event. However, despite the calm look on her face, in her heart, she felt a surge of emotion that she could hardly contain.

There was a soft knock on the door to her room, and from the way she knocked, she knew immediately who was behind the door.

“Come in, Hunter,” Clarice said, her voice soft, but commanding.

With his always alluring appearance, he wore a simple black suit that made him look even more attractive. The man stepped inside with his sturdy posture and calm stride. But when his gaze fell on Clarice who stood with her back to him, the tension in him instantly built.

Clarice felt Hunter's presence filling the room with an intense aura. However, she did not turn around. “Hunter, can you help me?” her voice was almost inaudible, low and trembling slightly despite her efforts to remain calm.

Hunter nodded, his steps halting right behind her. With characteristic skill and precision, he approached Clarice, his eyes still locked on her exposed back with the dress not yet fully buttoned. He stood so close, almost brushing against her, before his hands moved to work on the buttons on Clarice's back.

“It's a little tight here,” Hunter whispered softly, as if to give an excuse to touch Clarice's body gently. His fingers lightly brushed Clarice's skin, almost brushing the surface of her body, and Clarice could feel the warmth of the touch.

Clarice held her breath for a moment, but showed no overreaction. Everything was done with complete calmness, though there was an almost imperceptible spark of tension. “It's the first time I've been so close to them, to that complicated family,” Clarice whispered, her gaze fixed on the mirror. "I'm nervous... as well as excited."

Hunter finished the last button and stood right behind her, stealing glances at the mirror reflecting Clarice's face. "You'll do marvelously," he said softly. "Everyone will be impressed by the way you talk, by the way you show encouragement. You will eat them all up.”

Clarice nodded slowly, a faint smile appearing on her lips. “I hope so,” she replied, then turned back to Hunter, staring at him silently for a moment before finally saying, ”Thank you, Hunter.”

Hunter looked at her meaningfully, then replied, “You don't have to say thank you. I'm always here for you.”

Before Clarice could continue, Hunter turned and opened the door, making room for Clarice to step outside. “Ready, Señorita?” asked Hunter with an eager smile, gesturing for Clarice to come out.

Clarice took a deep breath, bracing herself. “Ready,” she replied firmly. They walked out together, ready for the all-important charity event.

***

Clarice and Hunter entered the main room of Aspire Heights Kindergarten. They walked together between the rows of tables and chairs that were already filled with parents and children. Clarice's gray eyes couldn't escape Summer McAuley who stood on the stage with a storybook in her hand. Unconsciously, her hands clenched into tight fists. Her jaw hardened as she remembered the injustice that had been done to Jane.

Hunter, noticing Clarice's gesture, took a step closer. In the shadows, he rubbed Clarice's hand, signaling her to ease her tension. “You must remember your purpose, Señorita.”

As if she had just regained control of herself, Clarice let out a long breath. She pulled her shoulders back again as Hunter drew away. 

Hunter walked beside her with relaxed yet firm steps, keeping his distance, but still providing ample protection. The two attracted the attention of many people in the room, especially Clarice with her stunning appearance. Clarice felt like attentive eyes were following her, especially after the large donation she made to participate in the event - it was Hunter's idea to get Clarice noticed by Felicia Sullivan, who was currently the vice-chair of the foundation.

Clarice's gaze fell on the adults talking seriously at the side of the room, discussing possible educational projects that would require substantial funding. She knew that this event was more than a storytelling event; it was a chance to draw attention and unite the power of donors, who could take the goals of LS Education Foundation and Aspire Heights Kindergarten to the next level.

In the midst of the scene, Clarice felt a glint in her eye that could not be ignored. Felicia, dressed in a formal gown with sophisticated makeup, walked towards Clarice with a friendly smile. Felicia extended her hand respectfully.

“Miss Wright, I'm finally able to speak to you in person,” Felicia said, her voice soft yet caring. “I am very grateful for your generous donation. It's a great help for our events and educational programs.”

Clarice smiled confidently, taking Felicia's hand gracefully. “I'm happy to be able to contribute. I believe in the importance of education, especially for children like them,” Clarice replied, nodding towards the group of children sitting in their seats.

Felicia nodded, her gaze showing sincerity. “It's great to see someone who cares about something like this. You're not only concerned about the results, but also the process. That's very inspiring.”

Clarice felt a little touched by Felicia's words, but didn't show it. She knew very well that this compliment was a smart way to strengthen the relationship. “Thank you, that's very kind of you. I just wanted to make sure that I did my part well,” she replied, with an even bigger smile.

Hunter who was standing beside Clarice appraised Felicia attentively. Although Felicia's demeanor seemed friendly, he could sense that there was something deeper she was hiding. However, he remained silent, only observing the interaction carefully.

Felicia continued to smile, as if sensing Clarice's positive energy. “I'd love to get to know you better, Miss Wright. How about we talk more later? There are some interesting things we might be able to discuss.”

Clarice nodded, enjoying the attention. “Of course, I would be delighted.”

Another woman approached Felicia and whispered something to her. After nodding, Felicia returned her attention to Clarice. “Well, Miss, it looks like I have something to do. Please enjoy the event,” she said before stepping away.

Clarice simply nodded lightly, then watched the woman leave with a satisfied smile. She then turned to Hunter, raising both eyebrows. “How was it?”

Hunter gave a small chuckle. “It was marvelous.”