The Inescapable Celibate Heir Chapter 83: Are You Hurt?

Lily didn't wait for a response and turned to leave.

Victoria was caught off guard. She wasn't a professional dancer, but she knew about the Starlight Dance Showdown, the most prestigious dance competition in Aerion, held every three years with strict age limits. Professional dancers from all over the country competed for this highly coveted honor. 

However, she had no plans to participate and merely glanced at Lily's back.

Sophie, noticing Victoria's lack of reaction, tried to comfort her, "Victoria, don't let her get to you. Willow and I are going to the Starlight Dance Showdown. We'll handle her for you!"

Willow added, "Yeah, Lily's our problem. Do whatever you want. Besides, Mrs. Hamilton won't force you into anything."

Victoria smiled lightly and nodded, "Thanks, you guys."

Eric then announced, "I've booked the night event at the Majestic Peaks Hotel. Let's all get ready and go celebrate!"

The Majestic Peaks Hotel, a five-star hotel near Nexus College, was popular among young people for its bonfire parties on the large lawn. 

The members of the snooker club cheered and clapped, "Awesome!"

Sophie tugged on Victoria's hand, "Victoria, I want to go too."

Just as Victoria was about to respond, Ethan, who had been watching her, spoke up, "You're all Victoria's friends. You're welcome to join us."

The students from Brightlight University joined in, "Francis, let's go too. The more, the merrier!"

Francis, looking unimpressed, said, "Boring," and turned to leave. But Sophie and her friends surrounded him, dragging him along despite his reluctance. 

He glanced at Ethan and the smiling Victoria before being pulled into the car.

Mira said, "I'll wait for Victoria to take off her makeup. You guys go ahead."

Ethan leaned in close to Victoria, his voice unusually gentle, "Go ahead, no rush. I'll wait for you."

While Victoria went to remove her makeup and change clothes, Mira was also pulled away by Nick, leaving Ethan alone outside the dressing room. 

When Victoria emerged with a fresh face still damp from washing, she was surprised to see only Ethan waiting.

Ethan shrugged, "I found it too noisy, so I sent them all ahead." He turned to look into Victoria's eyes, his gaze serious, "Just the two of us, isn't that nice?"

Victoria felt a bit flustered under his intense gaze. She knew what Ethan meant. 

Though he hadn't said it outright, his actions, the love song he played, and the amber pendant with its special meaning all symbolized his feelings for her. 

But Victoria clenched her fists. It wasn't that she wasn't moved; she just didn't dare to believe in a man's sincerity. 

In her past life, she had genuinely liked Dennis, but what did she get in return? His indifference and Ella's humiliation. 

Now that she had a second chance, how could she easily give her heart to another man?

Ethan saw Victoria's hesitation and sighed. It was his first time falling for someone, wanting to make her happy. 

But Victoria was different from the other girls who adored him. Beneath her proud exterior lay an unknown sadness. 

Though he didn't know where it came from, he wished to keep all bad things away from her. 

They walked slowly under the starry sky, each lost in their own thoughts.

When they got to the car, Ethan opened the door for Victoria. He noticed her knee tremble slightly as she sat down, her expression momentarily odd before she quickly masked it. 

His hand paused on the door, and he leaned in close, his handsome face near hers, his thick lashes almost brushing her heart, "Are you hurt?"

Victoria placed a hand on his chest, suppressing her panic, and smiled politely, "No, you must be mistaken. And you're too close."

Ethan straightened up with a light cough, "Sorry, I was just worried."

Victoria replied, "Thank you. Right now, I want to focus on my studies. There's still so much to learn, and I don't have time for anything else." 

At eighteen, she had plenty of time to pursue her dreams. But opportunities in the entertainment industry were fleeting, and she didn't have the luxury to handle a complicated romance.

Ethan, now back in the driver's seat, understood Victoria's message. She had her own goals and dreams, and he respected that. He nodded gently, "I'll wait for you."

Victoria hadn't expected him to say that. She thought someone as proud as Ethan would be angered or at least lose patience with her polite rejection. 

With his background and looks, what hadn't he easily obtained? Could he really be this dedicated to her? 

They drove in silence, Victoria occasionally glancing out the window, sometimes catching a glimpse of his profile—his high nose, captivating eyes, and tightly pressed lips. 

The colorful neon lights cast shadows on his face, making his features even more alluring, causing Victoria to momentarily lose herself.

When they arrived at the Majestic Peaks Hotel, the party was already in full swing. With the help of alcohol and barbecue, students from both schools mingled as if there were no rivalries. 

Francis, having been forced to drink several cups by Nick and Eric, had a flushed face and was pounding the table, challenging Nick to another game of Odds and Evens. 

Willow and Sophie, holding fruit wine, were clapping and laughing so hard that half their drinks spilled.

Mira, lifting her dress, ran over to Victoria, complaining, "Victoria, I wanted to wait for you, but Nick dragged me away!"

Victoria patted her back in comfort. "It's okay."

Dennis approached with a plate of freshly grilled beef and oysters, "Victoria, you're here. Want some? I grilled them myself." 

His dark brown eyes looked at her warmly, his smile showcasing his charm.

Mira's eyes lit up at the sight of the delicious food, "Dennis, you're amazing! You're good at everything, even grilling!"

Dennis modestly waved it off and picked up a piece of beef, offering it to Victoria, "I added a bit of chili. Try it while it's hot."