My Husband Is An International Idol

Chapter 80: The Beginning of a Conflict

The thirteen-hour flight ended beneath a brilliant Parisian sunrise.

Golden light spilled across the runway as the private aircraft touched down smoothly at Charles de Gaulle Airport. Waiting outside were members of the French Presidential Guard, officials from the Ministry of Culture, and representatives from the French Embassy, all prepared to welcome the St. Claire delegation.

The moment the cabin door opened, a cool autumn breeze greeted everyone.

Nicole inhaled deeply and smiled.

"So this is France."

Behind her, the other members of Rhythm admired the unfamiliar scenery with sparkling eyes. Although excitement filled the air, the tight security surrounding the group reminded everyone that this was more than a simple overseas trip.

A convoy of black luxury vehicles escorted them directly to the Élysée Palace.

For the younger artists, it felt almost unreal.

Rose quietly stared through the window as the convoy passed elegant boulevards lined with historic buildings and cafés. Every corner of Paris seemed to carry centuries of history, making the city feel like a living work of art.

When they finally arrived at the palace, the towering gates slowly opened.

The magnificent courtyard reflected the grandeur of French history, while rows of Republican Guards stood at attention in their ceremonial uniforms.

Nathan looked around in amazement.

"I’ve only seen places like this in documentaries."

Emily smiled.

"Now you’re standing in one."

Inside, the group was welcomed by the President of France and several government officials. After exchanging greetings, they toured parts of the palace before gathering for a private luncheon promoting cultural exchange, youth education, and international charitable partnerships.

The conversation remained warm and relaxed.

The President praised Pulse’s global influence and congratulated Rhythm on their upcoming debut.

"You represent more than music," he said with a smile.

"You inspire young people across the world."

Before the meeting concluded, another invitation was extended.

"This evening," the President continued, "the Étoile International Charity Gala will be held."

"It gathers leaders, artists, athletes, philanthropists, and fashion icons from around the world."

Matthew smiled politely.

"It would be an honor."

Amanda nodded in agreement.

However, the President turned toward Chris and Liliana.

"I sincerely hope both of you will attend as well."

The room became quiet.

"The kindness you showed one another has touched many people, including our own citizens."

"It would be our privilege to welcome you."

Chris glanced toward Liliana before smiling.

"We would be honored."

That evening...

Paris glittered beneath thousands of golden lights.

The historic venue hosting the charity gala overlooked the Seine River, its elegant architecture glowing against the night sky. Crystal chandeliers illuminated the grand ballroom where world leaders, Hollywood actors, international athletes, royalty, renowned designers, and business magnates gathered for one common purpose.

Every donation raised that evening would support orphanages and children courageously battling cancer.

Outside, hundreds of reporters crowded behind security barriers.

Camera flashes illuminated the entrance without pause.

Millions watched the red carpet through live broadcasts around the world.

Luxury vehicles continued arriving one after another.

Then...

A sleek black limousine slowly rolled to a stop.

The internet exploded.

"The St. Claire limousine!"

"It’s Chris!"

"Is Liliana with him?"

The chauffeur opened the door.

Chris stepped out first.

He wore a perfectly tailored midnight-black tuxedo with satin lapels, paired with a crisp white shirt and a classic black bow tie. A silver watch rested elegantly on his wrist, while his neatly styled blond hair and calm confidence made him look effortlessly distinguished.

He turned toward the limousine and extended his hand.

A delicate hand rested in his.

Liliana gracefully stepped onto the red carpet.

A collective gasp swept across the crowd.

She wore an off-shoulder champagne gown adorned with delicate crystal embroidery that shimmered like scattered starlight beneath every camera flash. The fitted bodice emphasized her graceful figure before flowing into layers of soft silk that swept elegantly across the carpet with every step. Diamond earrings framed her face, while her long brown hair cascaded in loose waves over one shoulder, revealing a graceful neckline that radiated timeless elegance.

For several seconds...

No one spoke.

Then the cameras erupted.

"Oh my God!"

"They look incredible!"

"They’re unreal!"

Within minutes, photographs of the pair climbed to the top of global trending lists.

Social media platforms flooded with comments.

"They’re the best-dressed couple tonight!"

"Their chemistry is unbelievable."

"They don’t even have to hold hands to look romantic."

"Please cast them in a movie!"

Even international fashion critics praised their appearance before they had entered the venue.

Inside the ballroom, Chris and Liliana greeted distinguished guests before separating briefly to meet representatives from different luxury houses.

Liliana quietly admired several charity exhibits when a woman approached Chris.

She looked confident and effortlessly elegant.

Long auburn hair rested over one shoulder, while a sophisticated black evening gown reflected her refined taste.

She smiled warmly.

"Mr. St. Claire?"

Chris turned politely.

"Good evening."

She extended her hand.

"My name is Ruby Grey."

"I’m twenty-six."

"I’m the creative director of Grey Atelier."

Chris recognized the prestigious fashion house immediately.

"It is a pleasure to meet you."

Ruby’s smile widened.

"I’ve admired your image for years."

"I believe you’re exactly the man I’ve been searching for."

Chris listened attentively.

"My next international collection represents confidence, elegance, and modern masculinity."

She looked directly into his blue eyes.

"I want you to become the face of it."

Several executives standing nearby immediately exchanged surprised glances.

Grey Atelier rarely collaborated with celebrities.

Chris considered the proposal for only a brief moment.

"I’d be delighted."

Ruby smiled brightly.

"Wonderful."

"I’ll have my team prepare everything."

Across the ballroom, Liliana happened to witness the conversation.

Although nothing inappropriate had happened...

Something unfamiliar stirred quietly inside her chest.

She couldn’t explain it.

Perhaps it was seeing another woman smile so brightly at Chris.

Or perhaps...

It was how quickly he accepted the offer.

Before she could think further, another gentleman approached her.

He was tall, with neatly styled dark blond hair and striking emerald eyes.

His warm smile carried effortless charm.

"Miss Sterling?"

Liliana smiled politely.

"Good evening."

He bowed slightly.

"Raphael Moretti."

"I’m one of Cartier’s campaign ambassadors."

Recognition flashed across Emily’s face from across the room.

Even she knew the famous French model.

Raphael continued.

"Cartier is preparing a global campaign centered on trust, kindness, and lifelong friendship."

He handed her a presentation folder.

"We would be honored if you became my partner for the project."

Liliana carefully looked through the concept boards.

There were no romantic scenes.

No intimate poses.

Only elegant photographs celebrating companionship and mutual respect.

She smiled.

"It sounds beautiful."

Raphael returned her smile.

"Should I tell Cartier you’ll accept?"

Liliana nodded.

"Yes."

"I’d love to."

Raphael offered his hand.

"I look forward to working with you."

She shook it warmly.

Across the ballroom...

Chris noticed the handshake.

For reasons he couldn’t quite understand...

His smile slowly faded.

A strange heaviness settled inside his chest.

He reminded himself that it was only work.

Exactly like his own agreement with Ruby Grey.

Still...

Watching Raphael speak so comfortably with Liliana left him unexpectedly unsettled.

At nearly the same moment, Liliana glanced toward Chris.

Ruby was laughing softly at something he had said.

Chris smiled politely in return.

Liliana lowered her eyes.

She knew there was nothing wrong.

Both of them had simply accepted professional opportunities.

Nothing more.

Nothing less.

Neither realized that the choices they had made that evening would quietly become the first crack in the peaceful life they had built together.

As their influence continued spreading across the world, so did the expectations placed upon them.

Fame brought opportunities beyond imagination.

It also introduced temptations, misunderstandings, and sacrifices neither of them had prepared for.

Their journey toward global domination had only just begun.

And so had the conflict that would test not only their careers...

...but the love they had yet to confess.