After much persuasion from Belinda, Yolanda reluctantly allowed herself to be helped into her wedding gown.

Although it was only an engagement party, Yolanda's gown was a custom design from a famous couturier, worth a fortune.

Once she was in the gown, the stylist finished her hair, placing a coronet on her head and adorning her with a matching set of jewelry. She looked radiant, dripping with pearls and gems.

Belinda took Yolanda's hand, her eyes welling up as she looked at her daughter in the wedding gown.

"Oh, my Yolanda. When you were born, you were so tiny. In the blink of an eye, all these years have passed, and now you're grown up and getting married. I'm so happy I get to see you in a wedding dress."

"Mom, it's just an engagement. If Eden doesn't treat me well, I won't marry him. You can't force me," Yolanda stated.

"I know, I know. You're our precious daughter. We will never let you be wronged," Belinda nodded repeatedly.

Just then, the dressing room door was knocked on, and Vincent walked in, looking impatient.

"Aren't you ready yet? The guests have arrived, and the party is about to start.”

"We're ready now. Vincent, look, doesn't our daughter look beautiful today?" Belinda said with a smile.

“Beautiful. My daughter is the most beautiful girl in the world," Vincent said, patting Yolanda's head before taking her hand.

"Come on, let's go. The bridesmaids are waiting for you."

Yolanda forced a smile and took Vincent's arm, and they walked out of the dressing

room.

Outside the door, the bridesmaids were still waiting. When they saw the bride emerge, they immediately flocked to her side.

Despite their private complaints, they were professionals who had navigated the industry for years. Not one of them was foolish enough to show their true feelings. They showered Yolanda with compliments, telling her how beautiful she looked, how she and the groom were a perfect match, and what a powerful union their families would make.

In short, no one wanted to offend the Walker family, so the flattery flowed freely. Bathed in their praise, Yolanda's expression finally softened into a genuine smile. In the ballroom, the guests were assembled.

Although only Frank and his mother represented the Thompson family, the allure of an event hosted by Istra's wealthiest family was enough to draw a crowd of the city's political

and business elite.

The Walkers had chosen the hotel and venue, and the lavish decorations were all

according to Belinda and Yolanda's tastes.

The Thompson family just footed the bill.

Vincent led Yolanda into the ballroom, where Eden was already waiting by the entrance.

"You look beautiful today," Eden said with a smile as he looked at Yolanda.

"Thank you," she replied, her face impassive.

Vincent, however, was beaming as he placed their hands together.

"Eden, I'm entrusting Yolanda to you. She's my only precious daughter. If you dare mistreat her, I won't forgive you."

Eden responded with perfect humility.

"Mr. Walker, you have my word. I will

"Mr. Waolanda and never let here?

treasure Y

suffer even the slightest,grievance, he said solemnly.

"I'm glad to hear that," Vincent replied, patting Eden's hand.

Then, Eden took Yolanda's hand and gently tucked it into the crook of his arm, smiling at her. "Come on, the party's starting. We have to go through the formalities and greet the guests."

"Okay," Yolanda nodded, murmuring her assent.