From His Ex-Wife to the World's Most Sought-After Restorer (Jade and Hudson) novel Chapter 163

After a few more words, Hudson hung up and noticed Kevin's hesitant look.

"If you have something to say, say it."

Kevin took a deep breath. "Sir, every big name in the country will be at that gala. Bringing Ms. Hoyt might be... inappropriate. I think you should take your wife instead."

The softness in Hudson's face vanished instantly.

"Do you really think Jade would even agree to go with me?"

Kevin wisely shut his mouth.

Hudson was about to dismiss him, but then he added one more thing.

"Don't mention this to Jade. I don't want any unnecessary misunderstandings."

"Yes, sir."

-

The day of the gala arrived in a flash.

Luxury cars lined the driveway of Montclair Manor as guests presented their invitations.

The room was packed with the elite—the same faces you'd see on the front of every financial magazine.

Screech— A car pulled up to the entrance.

The door of the limited-edition Maybach opened.

Hudson stepped out, looking sharp in his black suit.

He radiated a cold, arrogant aura that demanded attention.

At his side was Amara Hoyt, wearing a purple strapless silk gown.

She had spent the afternoon at a stylist's office, her hair styled in mature, cascading waves.

She tucked herself close to Hudson, feeling like they were the perfect pair.

Amara's recent scandal had been all over the news.

Many of the guests recognized her immediately.

The people here were high-society types with long memories.

While they didn't say it aloud, their judging stares followed Amara everywhere.

Those looks felt like knives cutting into her skin, and she instinctively grabbed Hudson's arm for protection.

"Hudson, why is everyone looking at me? I'm a little scared."

She looked up at him with teary, helpless eyes, playing the damsel in distress perfectly.

Hudson moved to shield her from the crowd.

"Ignore them. Just stay close to me."

Hudson walked toward her the moment their eyes met, his voice filled with accusation.

"Are you stalking me?"

"Stalking you?"

Jade let out a short laugh, her gaze moving past Hudson to Amara.

"Why would I follow you here? To catch you in the act?"

Hudson's face darkened instantly.

"Amara and I aren't—"

Jade looked back at him, her voice flat and indifferent.

"Isn't it common knowledge that you two are a thing? Why would I need to 'catch' you?"

Hudson ground his teeth as her voice continued.

"Relax. I'm not interested in your drama. I'm not here for you—you aren't that important."

Hudson sneered, a cold laugh escaping his lips.

"You're not interested, yet you show up the exact moment I bring Amara out? Just admit you're jealous. Stop acting tough."

Jade rolled her eyes discreetly. Seeing Harold Robbins enter the hall, she fixed her expression and walked right past Hudson to greet the old man with a smile.