Jenna was working late in her design studio, her fingers stained with silver polish, tiny gemstones scattered across her worktable. A half-finished necklace — a delicate mix of blue sapphires and white gold — lay gleaming under the desk lamp. She had just found her rhythm when her phone buzzed with an incoming message.
It was from Liam.
Liam: You're free Friday night, right?
She raised an eyebrow, wiping her hands before replying.
Jenna: I might be… depends. What's the occasion?
Liam: The Ryder Foundation Charity Gala. Black tie. I'd like you there — not just as my date, but as a featured jeweler. Think of it as business and pleasure.
Jenna blinked. Did he just offer me a spot at one of the city's biggest charity events?
A second message came through.
Liam: No pressure. But I already told them Quin would be donating a custom piece for auction. Hope you don't mind.
Jenna laughed to herself. Classic Liam — charming and commanding in the same breath.
Jenna: You're lucky you're cute. I'll be there. Better make room for sparkles.
---
The Preparation
By Thursday, her invitation had arrived, encased in sleek black velvet with embossed gold lettering. It was the kind of affair only old money and top-tier socialites attended. Normally, Jenna would have felt out of place. But this time, she wasn't just attending — she was showcasing her work. Her brand. Her name.
Isabelle came by the studio later that day, curious and excited. "I heard about your going to the gala!" she grinned, arms full of fabric swatches and a bottle of white wine. "Tell me you'll stun them all."
Jenna smirked. "That's the plan. I've got the dress. And I'm designing a special piece just for the event."
"Ooh, what kind of piece?" Isabelle asked, pouring them each a glass.
Jenna slid open a drawer and revealed a sketch — a starburst choker with a deep sapphire centerpiece. "This is going to auction. The proceeds will go to the children's literacy program the Ryders fund."
Isabelle's eyes lit up. "That's beautiful. It's bold but elegant. Just like you."
Jenna glanced at her, touched. "Thanks. I guess it's my way of showing I belong."
"You already do," Isabelle said softly. "And if anyone tries to say otherwise, they'll have me to deal with."
---
Across the City
Meanwhile, Liam stood in his penthouse, glass of scotch in hand, overlooking the skyline. He'd attended more galas than he could count — most of them tedious, calculated affairs where appearances meant more than purpose.
But this time felt different.
He'd seen something shift in Jenna lately. A quiet confidence blooming under pressure. And he admired it — maybe even needed it.
When Andrew stepped into the room, phone to his ear, Liam looked up. "She said yes."
Andrew grinned. "To the gala? Or to being the future Mrs. Ryder?"
Liam scowled. "Don't start."
"Relax," Andrew chuckled, plopping into a chair. "I just think it's good. You're bringing someone real into that crowd. About time."
Liam's gaze drifted back to the city lights. "Yeah… it is."
---
End of Chapter 18
In this chapter, Liam invites Jenna into his world not just as a date, but as a professional — recognizing her craft and giving her the platform she deserves. Isabelle continues to be her anchor, and Liam's internal shift becomes more apparent.