Chapter 12
The next day, Bailey received a dress from Julian
It was perfectly chosen–a champagne–colored silk mermaid gown that hugged her curves, with pearl studded ruffes cascading around the neckline like moonlight blooming at her throat
She put on the dress and let the stylist complete her look, transforming her into a shimmering vision reminiscent of a mythical mermaid
fiftieth birthday
The birthday celebration Julian had mentioned was for his aunt’s fift
Among the country’s elite families, marriage connections formed an intricate web.
This particular aunt had been a former beauty pageant winner and internationally acclaimed actress
After marrying into wealth, she quickly retired from the spotlight and bore three children–two sons and a daughter–within five years.]
Now, her eldest son had reached adulthood–handsome, accomplished, and the very picture of refined masculinity.
So even though her husband had grown tired of her aging beauty and found himself mistresses, her position remained unshakable and secure.
Today was her fiftieth birthday, and relatives and friends had gathered to celebrate–the perfect opportunity for Julian to orchestrate Hailey’s grand entrance.
The ballroom ceiling was adorned with twelve Swarovski crystal chandeliers, illuminating the space like daylight. The marble floor reflected their dazzling brilliance, creating the illusion of standing among the stars.]
Guests in elegant attire moved through the space, a symphony of perfume, jewelry, and champagne glasses clinking, accompanied by the melodious strains of violins–a decadent celebration of wealth.]
Bailey entered on Julian’s arm, a demure smile perfectly positioned on her lips, the embodiment of a well bred socialite.
Ap acquaintance spotted them and teased suggestively. “And who’s this? Girlfriend?”
In such settings, mistresses were never brought along. Anyone escorted to such an event had to at least hear the title of girlfriend
Julian smiled: “Girlfriend? No, this is my cousin, Renee Mitchell“]
He
- explained casually: “Some of our relatives emigrated decades ago. She’s from that branch of the family.”
“Ah, I see,” the person nodded in understanding.
In the 1970s, knowledgeable intellectuals with connections had emigrated in large numbers.
Some families, hedging their bets, often had siblings choose different paths
The Hayes family, with its extensive roots, had done the same [
Previously, when domestic conditions weren’t great and international travel was complicated, family.connections naturally drifted apart
But now things were differein.[]
A few years back, Hayes relatives from Southeast Asia had specially returned to reconnect with family and participate in ancestral worship.
This so–called cousin was likely some distant relative of Julian’s.]
After making introductions around the room, Julian let her mingle on her own
The background story had been thoroughly memorized, so there was no risk of inconsistencies
After circling the room, Julian whispered in her ear: “Alexander has arrived find an opportunity to make yourself visible to him.”
Badey nodded
the hold a cocktail, standing among women Julian had introduced her to, listening to their gossip
Everyone was elegantly dressed, smiling as they discussed scandalous affairs |
“That vixen Stella is just trash from the slums pretending to be high–class“]]
“Exactly–having a love child with another woman’s husband. So classless.”
Theard the wife’s story was 1
s tragic! Burned alive, and they covered it up by claiming she disappeared.”
Bailey listened in confusion, quietly asking “Who are you talking about?“||
The woman tilted her head toward a direction, her diamond earrings catching the light with dazzling fire
Hailey followed her gaze and saw the man she hadn’t seen for six months, still commanding attention in the crowd
Alexander wore a custom–tailored deep gray suit that perfectly outlined his tall, straight figure, exuding effortless control with every gesture.]]
Previously, at such gatherings, Bailey would have been the one at Alexander’s side]
Yet now. Stella had taken her place
Stella was certainly enjoying her newfound prominence, wearing an $800,000 couture mermaid gown with voluminous beach waves cascading over Her shoulders. In this setting, standing beside Alexander, she appeared completely at ease]
Bailey tipped back her cocktail in one swallow, the burning liquid scorching her throat but failing to match the pain in her heart
“Til get another drink. Ladies, I’ll be back shortly.”
The women barely acknowledged her, continuing their conversation.
Bailey slowly walked toward the central table.[]
Meanwhile, Alexander was engaged in conversation with business associates, with Stella clinging to his side like ivy.]
Stella’s refusal to leave his side had already begun to irritate him
Just then, a familiar silhouette flashed before his eyes.]]
“This project has potential, though there are several hurdles requiring considerable financial greasing to overcome”
Midway through his associate’s pitch, Alexander acted as if he hadn’t heard a word, brushing past the speaker.]
“Alexander!” Stella nearly tripped at his sudden movement, startled.]
Bu: Alexander seemed deaf to everything, striding purposefully toward the long table.
Stella followed his gaze, her carefully applied makeup instantly losing color]
She never expected Balley to appear here!
