My Reborn Admirer Wins Over My Heart novel Chapter 174

**Chapter 174: The Gathering**

As the atmosphere in the room buzzed with anticipation, Oriana felt a surge of composure wash over her. She straightened her posture, took a deep breath, and declared, “I have no objections.” Her voice was steady, though inside, she was aware that the discussion between Luna and Oscar had veered far from the intended focus of the SmartMed Project. There was little she could contribute to a conversation that had drifted so far off course.

Alaric, caught in an unexpected moment of silence without any guidance in his earpiece, awkwardly adjusted his lips, trying to regain control of the situation. “Alright, you may take your seats again,” he said, attempting to steer the meeting back on track.

“Since there are no objections, I hereby declare this meeting adjourned for now. However, I ask that you all stay for just a moment longer. Today marks the beginning of our journey together. This evening, Aurora will be hosting a dinner at the Refe House for everyone. We sincerely hope to see you all there,” Alaric announced, clearing his throat as he spoke, his voice echoing slightly in the spacious room.

Instantly, a wave of excitement rippled through the attendees.

“Wow! Refe House? Isn’t that the exclusive place you have to book six months in advance?” one voice chimed in, filled with enthusiasm.

“I’ve heard their head chef is incredibly handsome! And the food? Absolutely divine! This dinner is going to be amazing!” another added, eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Oriana, just settling into her seat, couldn’t help but frown at the enthusiastic chatter.

Rising once more, her voice sliced through the buzz, reaching even Grant, who was positioned behind the camera. “I’m sorry, but I have prior commitments tonight. I won’t be able to attend the dinner,” she declared firmly.

Grant, hidden behind the screen, clenched his jaw in frustration. “Everyone must attend. If even one person decides to skip out, we’ll have to postpone the entire event,” he insisted, his tone brooking no argument.

Alaric froze, taken aback by Grant’s unexpected insistence. He had not anticipated such a strong reaction. While he disagreed with Grant’s stance, he knew he had no choice but to comply, fearing a verbal lashing later that would leave him feeling utterly humiliated.

Later, Alaric would report that Oriana was not the only one upset; nearly everyone in the room had begun to voice their discontent.

“Seriously? All this fuss over one person not showing up?”

“Ugh, team unity is crucial. If someone isn’t on board from day one, that’s a serious issue.”

“Are you kidding me? Not even for Refe House? What’s going on here?”

The room was filled with discontented murmurs.

Lily’s expression soured. “What the heck? Medical students being forced into social obligations? This is ridiculous!”

“Seriously, why even bother with Refe House? Isn’t Aurora House just as good?”

If it weren’t for her weak leg and naturally timid demeanor, she would have stood up and confronted someone right then and there.

A subtle spark ignited in Oriana’s eyes. “Fine. Since Alaric insists, I’ll go,” she relented, her voice steady despite the undercurrent of reluctance.

Alaric exhaled in relief, a weight lifting from his shoulders. “Great! Dinner will proceed as planned. I look forward to seeing you all tonight. Meeting adjourned,” he declared, a sense of accomplishment washing over him.

After exchanging a few brief words with Oscar, Alaric made his exit, but not before Luna, her expression stormy, followed closely behind. “Alaric!” she called out, her tone sharp.

Alaric’s heart sank at the sound of her voice, but he turned with a smile plastered on his face. “Luna?” he replied, attempting to maintain his composure.

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