Tabitha's POV
There were only Derek and me in this hallway, and I could already hear the loud music and the host's voice coming from behind that curtain.
Clearly, we were at the scene of some event.
I didn't quite understand why Derek had to bring me to the event in such a mysterious way.
I turned my head to look at Derek and whispered, "What kind of event is this? You should have told me in advance so that I could be mentally prepared."
A light shone above Derek's head, casting a glow on his chiseled face, erasing all his fierceness.
"It doesn't matter. What matters is that you and I will participate together."
The host's voice boomed outside, and judging by the cheers, I could tell that it was an awards ceremony for a film festival.
That made me even more curious about Derek's identity. Wasn't he just some construction site manager or something?
How could he get invited to an event like this?
I wasn't enlightened until the host's loud voice rang out, "We're super honored to have the CEO of the Greenwood Group and his wife here tonight to present an award! Let's give a big round of applause for Mr. and Mrs. Greenwood!"
I was slack-jawed. Turned out my mate was a CEO?
If I'd done even a little online digging since coming around these past few days, I would've figured out who Derek really was. But who would think their hubby belonged to such a wealthy family?
Sure, he looked busy all the time, but how could a CEO stay at home with his wife every day?
I poked Derek's body with my elbow and said, "What the hell? Why didn't you tell me?!"
"I can't think of a better opportunity than this to let everyone know that you are my wife."
My heart skipped a beat. "You're doing this because..."
Derek's fingers slid between mine until they fit perfectly together. Then he lifted and kissed the back of my hand, adding, "I want the world to know who you are."
Just then, the curtain pulled back, and all the lights and cameras were focused on him and me.
Everyone caught sight of Derek kissing the back of my hand, and screams nearly blew off the roof.
I could hear them gossiping with each other.
"Ahhh!"
"He's so handsome, and she's so beautiful!"
"This is just like something out of a romantic novel. Why do I get the sense that Derek is facing some hidden struggles? The eyes never lie when it comes to love, and he's never looked at anyone else like that."
"So this is his wife? She's stunning!"
"I know this girl. We went to the same high school. She was a super genius, skipping many grades. Later, I heard that she had been secretly married. I never expected that her husband would be Derek!"
Romantic love stories were always popular and well-received by everyone.
Thus, most of the people present were buzzing with excitement and well-wishes.
The host grinned at us and said, "It seems that the audience are all excited seeing you two together. Derek, you never show up at events like this. Can you tell everyone the reason for accepting the invitation?"
Derek led me, who felt a bit awkward, slowly to the center of the stage. He then tightened his grip on my hand and took the microphone with a gentle expression on his face.
"My wife is a big fan of some experienced artists. We came here tonight because the movie 'The Fortress' was nominated and she would be able to meet her favorite actor."
Clearly, the people present were more interested in Derek's relationship with me than in the movie itself. Even the host seemed pumped, as it was rare to see Derek in such a good mood.