Chapter 60
Sarah relaxed as Mia diverted her grandfather’s scrutinizing gaze. Mia’s timing couldn’t have been better.
Being Zachary’s date had certainly drawn attention, including from his family.
Her divorced status wasn’t a secret – she knew Old Mr. Reynolds must have heard the gossip.
“Let’s join the others,” he said.
By the spiral staircase, Charlotte frowned. She’d deliberately started those rumors for Old Mr. Reynolds to hear.
But unexpectedly, he hadn’t reacted negatively!
Her eyes found James through the crowd. He was staring, not at her, but at Sarah!
Sarah’s elegant figure in her evening gown was like a painting come to life. Even James couldn’t help staring. Charlotte clenched her fists in fury – this was intolerable!
Being the host, Zachary couldn’t stay with Sarah all evening. After ensuring she was settled, his grandfather called him away, asking Mia to keep Sarah company.
Sarah had never enjoyed such events, knowing she’d be scrutinized as Zachary’s date.
Once Zachary left, Mia led Sarah to the dessert table. “Sarah, these are all my favorites. You must try them!”
Sarah picked one up, admiring its delicate appearance. Instead of being overly sweet, it had a subtle fragrance with hints of fruit.
“Sarah, I’m surprised you have the nerve to show up here,” Lucy sneered.
Sarah’s expression darkened. The Chancers‘ harassment seemed endless.
“Lucy! Sarah’s here as my brother’s personal guest, and I wanted her here too. This is a Reynolds event – you have no right to criticize!” Mia stepped protectively in front of Sarah.
“Mia, don’t bother,” Sarah faced Lucy coldly. “Mind your manners. My attendance here is none of your concern. Your rudeness only embarrasses the Chancer name – though I suppose that’s nothing new.”
Lucy’s eyes blazed with fury. She wanted to slap Sarah but knew better than to cause a scene here. Trembling with rage, she spat,
“You bitch! How dare you call me embarrassing!”
“Lucy, if you say one more word against Sarah, I’ll have security throw you out! Now that would be embarrassing!” Mia’s face flushed with anger.
Charlotte watched from behind, knowing she needed to separate Mia from Sarah.
A waiter approached with a tray of champagne. As he passed behind Mia, someone kicked his knee. The tray tilted, and despite his
efforts to steady it, wine splashed onto Mia’s white dress.
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Chapter 60
“Oh no, my dress!” Mia gasped, quickly covering her mouth.
The waiter turned pale, frantically offering his handkerchief. But the dark red wine had already stained the white fabric – nearly impossible to clean, especially on such delicate material.
“I’m so sorry, Miss Reynolds!”
His attempts to clean it only made the stain worse, spreading across the skirt.
