Claimed by the Crown Heir novel Chapter 133

Stepping out of the car, Alistair casually offered her his arm.

Vanessa reached out and linked her arm through his with natural grace.

Inside the courtyard, brilliant lights illuminated the space where the elite guests had already gathered to celebrate.

No one was seated yet; they all stood mingling in the courtyard, a sea of designer gowns and tailored suits, waiting quietly.

"Mr. Howard." Catching sight of Alistair, Marcus Beaumont quickly approached with his wife.

"Happy birthday, Mrs. Beaumont," Alistair said with a slight nod, casually handing over a gift box.

Lydia Beaumont accepted it with both hands, unable to hide her profound flattery.

"You're far too kind, Mr. Howard! Your presence alone is the greatest honor I could ask for. I hardly dare accept a gift."

Marcus chuckled beside her. "It's from Mr. Howard, darling. Just accept it."

Only then did Lydia carefully tuck the box away.

"And who might this be?" Marcus asked, his gaze drifting to Vanessa with a hint of curiosity. Having known Alistair for years, he had never seen the man bring a female companion to a social event. Bringing her out tonight meant their relationship was definitely something special.

"My girlfriend, Vanessa," Alistair replied, his voice deep and smooth as he glanced sideways. "Vanessa, this is Chief Beaumont and Mrs. Beaumont."

The word "girlfriend" sounded so foreign to Vanessa that it almost felt surreal.

Was he officially acknowledging her status?

Pushing down the ripple of emotion in her chest, she offered a flawless, radiant smile. "Mr. Beaumont, Mrs. Beaumont."

Marcus's expression instantly shifted, adopting an enthusiastic smile. "Miss Grant is absolutely stunning. You and Mr. Howard are a match made in heaven!"

Lydia chimed in with a warm laugh. "Your silk gown is exquisite, Miss Grant. I rarely see young women wear such a classic silhouette with such elegant grace."

"Yes." It was crafted using the lost art of Imperial Silk Tapestry.

A wave of nostalgia washed over her as she remembered her time in Savannah. She had saved a lonely, elderly woman who, out of gratitude, had insisted on passing down the dying art of Imperial Silk Tapestry to her before passing away.

The other guests couldn't hear their hushed conversation; they only saw the two whispering intimately, their body language effortlessly affectionate.

The sight sent shockwaves through the crowd.

For a woman to catch Alistair Howard's eye and be brought out in public meant she held immense weight in his life.

"Mr. Howard, Miss Grant, right this way," Marcus said, smiling as he led the way.

"Today is Mrs. Beaumont's day. The seat of honor belongs to her." Preferring to keep a low profile and not overshadow the hostess, Alistair guided Vanessa directly to the secondary seats. Seeing that his mind was made up, Marcus didn't insist further and helped his wife to the main seat.

The rest of the guests followed suit and took their places.