Chapter 253
Dominic Blackwood studied the man who had captured his daughter's heart. The man exuded strength and maturity.
He carried himself like someone who had achieved success in life.
What's more, the man knew Dominic was the Provincial Committee Secretary yet made no attempt to curry favor. Polite, but distant.
Dominic nodded in approval. This was a man worthy of Lillian's affection. If his daughter wanted him, he would move heaven and earth to make it happen.
After introductions, Dominic inquired, "I've heard T Corporation's CEO is exceptionally talented. Meeting you confirms it. Tell me, are you married?"
"I'm unmarried, but I have two five-year-old children."
Every word from Dominic's lips made Lillian's heart flutter.
A flicker of disappointment crossed Dominic's face at the mention of children.
Yet it didn't matter. Not when he saw how smitten his daughter was. With Dominic's wealth and influence, Lillian could bear her own heirs later. Money was no object for raising children.
Meanwhile, Lillian sat transfixed, her gaze locked on Dominic.
She'd chosen her makeup carefully tonight.
Research told her Dominic preferred understated elegance. The silk gown hugged her curves just right - modest yet alluring. The light makeup enhanced her natural beauty.
Judging by the admiring glances from other men, her efforts had paid off.
Linking arms with her father, she smiled demurely. "Mr. Blackwood, I understand T Corporation is seeking a new perfume spokesperson. Might I be considered?"
Lillian knew exactly how to play her charms.
She never met a man's gaze directly. Instead, she'd glance sideways through her lashes, pairing it with her sweetest smile.
This technique had broken countless hearts before.
Dominic gave her a cursory glance. "Your beauty and talent speak for themselves, Ms. Prescott. You wouldn't need your father's connections for such a role."
The dinner guests quickly agreed.
"With you as spokesperson, sales would skyrocket!"
"Your debut performance was extraordinary - a true natural!"
These political figures excelled at flattery.
Everyone knew Lillian Prescott couldn't act.
Her orphanage background had lent authenticity to her first role, but subsequent performances were disastrous. Her latest film, "Seven Kingdoms at War," became legendary - for all the wrong reasons.
With a 3.9 IMDB rating, it destroyed several careers. Yet Lillian remained unscathed, thanks to her powerful backing.
Lillian basked in the praise but feigned modesty. "Acting is my passion. I owe everything to my father's support."
Dominic saw through the charade but held his tongue.
T Corporation used international stars to project prestige. Lillian would diminish their brand. Yet refusing outright would offend Jonathan Prescott.
The financial loss would be negligible compared to gaining Jonathan's favor.
Jonathan patted his daughter's hand. "I've spoiled her terribly, Mr. Blackwood. If she becomes your spokesperson, I trust you'll take good care of her."
"Mr. Blackwood is a gentleman, Father. He understands," Lillian purred, already claiming victory.
Dominic suppressed a shudder at her cloying tone.
Suddenly, he longed for Evelyn's genuine warmth...
Yet he maintained a diplomatic smile. "It would be our honor, Ms. Prescott."
Jonathan laughed heartily. "Excellent! I'll leave you young people to it."
Dominic's smile turned razor-sharp. "Speaking of which, our seaside resort proposal seems stalled at the Environmental Protection Agency. Has protocol changed?"