Chapter 18
The servant handled the gifts without question.
Andrew didn’t react when they were returned–he just sent more.
+20 Bonus
At first, Vernon figured they’d only be delivered to the Chopard estate. But then Andrew brought them straight to the banquet.
The event, hosted by an old friend of the Chopards, marked Lena’s first formal appearance as Mrs. Chopard.
Her crimson gown matched Vernon’s red pocket square. A twenty–five–carat ruby–his birthday gift to her–sparkled on her ring finger, drawing envious stares.
From the second she walked in, arm–in–arm with Vernon, she owned the room.
And, of course—
She caught his eye.
Andrew watched from the corner, bitterness flickering across his face.
It had been so long since he’d seen Lena smile. She used to be full of laughter, her joy infectious enough to lift even his darkest
moods.
But after he pushed her aside for Nicole? She’d only ever looked at him with caution.
His grip tightened around the gift box in his hands, nearly crushing it.
As one of the evening’s honored guests, Lena received gifts from various attendees.
Finally, Andrew stepped forward.
But before he could speak, Vernon led Lena toward a private lounge on the second floor.
“Lena!”
Andrew’s expression shifted as he instinctively moved to follow–only to be blocked by two massive bodyguards.
The Chopard family butler stepped up, voice calm but cutting.
“Mr. Rohan, a person should know their place. You know exactly what you did to Mrs. Chopard. The fact that Mr. Chopard hasn’t retaliated is already more grace than you deserve.”
Each word hit like a slap.
Nearby guests turned, murmuring. Those who knew the history exchanged looks.
Those familiar with Andrew and Lena’s past exchanged knowing glances.
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Chapter 18
Mockery laced their whispers-
How blind he’d been.
