?strongChapter 96:/strong

Carrie shrugged with a nonchnce that could have rivaled the wind ignoring a falling leaf. “Yes, that’s right. I’m the big bad viin here. Satisfied? Or was there more you needed to lecture me about? If not, consider it noted.”

She turned to leave, but Kristopher blocked her path. “You’re not going anywhere without taking me inside.”

Carrie folded her arms, her gaze unwavering. “I’m not in the mood. Find another way in.”

Kristopher let out a humorlessugh, his frustration evident. “You’re holding my invitation. Why can’t I go in?”

Carrie’s frown deepened. She had arrived with Soren. When exactly had Kristopher given her an invitation?

Their heated exchange drew Soren’s attention. He approached, first nodding at Kristopher before addressing Carrie. “What’s happening?”

The waiter, visibly flustered, saw Soren as a potential mediator. Before Carrie could respond, he blurted out, “Mr. Rodgers, this gentleman ims he gave his invitation to thisdy.”

Soren quicklyprehended the situation. He understood the waiter believed Kristopher was attempting to crash the event. “This is a business partner of Mr. Bowman and the CEO of Norris Group,” Soren exined to the waiter. “Obtaining an invitation is no challenge for him. There’s been a misunderstanding. Return to your duties; I’ll escort Mr. Norris inside.”

Relieved, the waiter hurried away.

Soren turned to Kristopher, providing additional context. “Carrie came with me because Mr. Bowman invested in our new drama. She only carried a small clutch today, which couldn’t amodate an invitation. I believe you’ve misunderstood, Mr. Norris.”

Kristopher realized his mistake. Yet, a familiar irritation bubbled beneath the surface. Why had shee with this shy man when she could have secured her own invitation? Was she deliberately trying to provoke him?

Initially intending to speak with Billie, Kristopher now hesitated, unwilling to appear foolish in front of Soren. He removed his suit jacket, draping it over Carrie. “What on earth are you wearing? I won’t argue about the past, bute back with me now.”

Carrie stepped back, evading the jacket. “I’ll wear whatever I choose. Since when do I need an ex-husband’s permission for my clothing?”

“We’re still technically married.” Kristopher’s voice turned cial.

“I’ve moved out and submitted divorce papers.” Carrie stood her ground. “If you refuse to agree, once the separation period ends, I’ll have the court enforce it.”

Clifton noticed themotion and approached. “Mr. Norris, I didn’t know you wereing.”

Sensing Carrie’s difort, Soren intervened. “Mr. Norris, some investors are interested in our film’s progress. I’ll take Carrie to speak with them. Apologies for theck of hospitality; I’ll treat you to dinnerter to make up for it.”

Carrie shot Soren a grateful nce and followed him.

Clifton, ever the observer, chuckled as he watched. “The woman Mr. Rodgers brought is quite the beauty. At first, I thought she might be his new muse. But both of them insist otherwise.”

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