Trapped in a Secret Marriage with a Dangerous Billionaire - Chapter 162

Chapter 162: The State Dinner

Aurora stood in the elegant confines of her private showroom, her team bustling around her as they finalized her look for the night.

The dress she wore was a breathtaking masterpiece—a floor-length gown of midnight blue satin, delicately embroidered with silver threads that shimmered like constellations under the light.

A teardrop diamond necklace adorned her neck, and her hair was styled into an intricate updo, accentuating her graceful features.

When she was finally ready, Aurora stepped out of the showroom to find Xander waiting in the adjacent lounge. He stood tall in a tailored black tuxedo, his presence commanding and refined. His piercing gaze softened as it landed on her, and a rare, warm smile curved his lips.

“You look stunning, sweetheart,” Xander said, his voice rich with admiration.

Aurora’s cheeks flushed slightly, but she met his gaze confidently. “Thank you. You clean up well yourself.”

Xander chuckled, offering his arm. She took it with a smile, and together they descended the staircase at the front patio right outside the house to find their car waiting.

The sleek Rolls-Royce gleamed under the evening lights, flanked by three other black cars containing their security detail. Nene, poised and professional, was in one, while Liam and the rest of the team occupied the others.

The convoy set off smoothly, the soft hum of the engines signalling their departure for the state dinner.

—

The venue was resplendent, a grand ballroom illuminated with chandeliers and gilded decor. As Xander and Aurora arrived, Liam stepped forward with their invitation card, presenting it to the attendant. The couple entered hand in hand, their elegant presence immediately capturing the attention of the room.

Whispers rippled through the gathering as dignitaries turned to look at them. Some recognized Aurora as the brilliant mind behind the Fruit Punch Champagne, while others were more astounded to learn that she was Xander Scott’s wife.

“Is that her? His wife?” one voice murmured.

“Impossible. Xander Scott would have publicly acknowledged she was his wife since she is Aurora Swift if she was actually the one,” said another.

Aurora kept her head held high, her serene smile betraying none of the nerves she felt under the scrutinizing gazes. Xander leaned closer, his voice low and reassuring. “Ignore them. Tonight, they will all learn just how exceptional you are.”

As they made their way through the crowd, several high-profile guests approached Xander to exchange pleasantries. He introduced Aurora with pride, each time calling her ‘my wife.’ The live cameras in the room caught every moment, and the flash of photographers became a constant backdrop.

—

The room fell silent as the royal family of Octavia made their entrance. The King, resplendent in a ceremonial uniform, led the way with the Queen on his arm. Princess Victoria followed closely behind, her poise and elegance drawing admiration from all corners. The President of Wing City accompanied them, adding to the grandeur of the moment.

Aurora observed the royal family’s entrance with quiet composure, though she couldn’t help but notice Victoria’s sharp, knowing gaze as it briefly met Xander’s. But in all, she thought that the Princess was beautiful.

—

Later in the evening, during a lull in the banquet, Princess Victoria approached them. Her steps were measured, her smile serene, but her eyes sparkled with a calculated interest.

“Mr. Scott,” Victoria greeted warmly, though there was a subtle edge to her tone. “It’s lovely to see you again.”

“Your Highness,” Xander replied politely, his tone impassive. He didn’t bow, and the defiance wasn’t lost on her.

“And you must be the talented Director. Swift,” Victoria said, extending her hand to Aurora. “Your Fruit Punch Champagne has become a personal favourite of mine.”

Aurora shook her hand gracefully. “Thank you, Your Highness. I’m honoured that you enjoy it.”

Victoria’s smile widened as her gaze flicked between the couple. “I must admit, I didn’t realize you were married until tonight. How long has it been?”

Xander cut in before Aurora could answer. “We’ve been happily married for some time now.”

“Congratulations,” Victoria said smoothly, though there was a flicker of something unreadable in her expression. “I hope you will both join me tomorrow when I visit Vintage Cellar. I’d love to see the winery in person.”

Aurora nodded politely. “I will be there to personally give you a tour,” she said subtly hinting at Xander’s absence.

As Victoria turned to lead them to meet her parents, she remarked casually, “Xander, it’s been years since you last saw my father and mother, hasn’t it?”

Aurora’s chest tightened momentarily, unsure if the comment was meant to provoke her. But the reassuring squeeze of Xander’s hand steadied her. His silent message was clear: she had absolutely nothing to fear.

—

The King and Queen greeted Xander and Aurora warmly. The King’s deep voice carried a note of authority as he praised Aurora’s work. “Your Fruit Punch Champagne is a remarkable creation. It suits even my discerning palate.”

Aurora curtsied gracefully. “Thank you, Your Majesty. That means a lot to me.”

The Queen added her own kind words, her tone soft but sincere. “You’ve accomplished so much at such a young age. It’s inspiring.”

As the President of Wing City joined the conversation, he greeted Xander with familiarity. “Mr. Scott. It’s been a while.”

Xander shook his hand firmly. “Mr. President, it’s always a pleasure.”

Aurora felt a swell of pride as Xander introduced her to the President as his wife. She greeted him warmly, her confidence buoyed by the strength of their partnership.

And for the hundredth time that night, she felt proud of being Xander’s wife otherwise, how on earth would she had had the opportunity to get introduced to so many dignitaries tonight?

Without Xander by her side, surely, Stella would have made sure she wouldn’t ever get this kind of opportunity.

—

The evening unfolded with elegance and entertainment. Opera singers graced the stage, and a live orchestra filled the room with enchanting melodies. Aurora found herself making connections with influential women at the banquet, exchanging contact details and invitations to exclusive gatherings.

During the dining segment, Aurora and Xander sat at a prominent table surrounded by ministers and business magnates. Xander cut a piece of his dessert and placed it on her plate. “Try this. You will love it.”

Aurora took a bite, her eyes lighting up. “This is delicious.”

“You have good taste,” he said with a teasing smile, adding more to her plate.

Someone at the table commented, “You two make a lovely couple. It’s refreshing to see such genuine affection.”

Aurora blushed, and Xander smiled, his pride evident.

—

As the banquet came to an end, Xander and Aurora made their rounds, bidding farewell to the key figures. When they approached Princess Victoria, she smiled elegantly.

“Xander, let’s arrange some time to catch up. It’s been too long. And of course, bring your beautiful wife and Asher along. What do you say?”