Billionaire's Match

Chapter 25 Every time Nick finished speaking , thunderous applause swept through the auditorium . Even Khloe , watching from her screen , found herself clapping before she realized it . There was no denying it - professional excellence had an irresistible allure all its own . Nick was cold and aloof , like some untouchable marble statue . Yet , to Khloe , he radiated a powerful , almost overwhelming magnetism . When the livestream ended , she finally understood his reticence . With someone that brilliant , silent admiration was enough .

There was no need for small talk , and certainly no room for frivolous romance . Her phone stayed dark . No new messages appeared . Eventually , sleep claimed her , and she pulled the covers over her head . The following evening , Khloe attended the charity gala . Oscar accompanied her at first but was soon pulled away to handle urgent business . Michael , too , was constantly in demand - either on his phone or cornered by associates eager for a word . In contrast , Khloe received little more than polite nods , the occasional handshake , or a business card pressed into her palm .

Though she bore the Morrison name , few sought her out for anything beyond a cursory greeting . She understood why . Everyone here was a titan of industry . Their respect for the Morrison family was genuine , but it was reserved for Niel and the acknowledged members of his household . To them , Khloe - the newly arrived , " illegitimate " daughter - wasn't worth their serious attention . Oscar had warned her this would happen . The attendees valued Clarice and Ethan far more .

offend Clarice or her son prematurely , so they kept their distance , preferring to watch and wait . Khloe didn't mind . She was here to represent the Morrison family , that was all . Still , with billions at stake , she couldn't afford to fade into the background . She had prepared meticulously for her speech . The draft had been written by professionals Oscar

. Any misstep would reflect poorly on all of them . But Khloe shook her head . She clenched her hands once , steadied her breath , and whispered , " Don't worry . I won't make any mistakes . " When they had first entered the hall , she

Bonus Even with Michael by her side , whispers still slithered into her ears . " Illegitimate daughter . " " Just living off the family name . ' " An embarrassment

Khloe met his eyes , a quiet gratitude shining in her own as she nodded . Soon , it was her turn . The host handed her the microphone , and the spotlight locked onto her . Dressed in a stunning sapphire - blue gown embroidered with crystals and adorned with millions in jewels , Khloe looked like