Chapter 233
Christina had been worried that Lauren might rudely kick her out. But not only did that not happen, Lauren treated her so warmly.
Before she knew it, Christina was being escorted into the main hall by two of the most influential women in the circle, one
on each side.
When it came time to sit, both Lauren and Diana wanted Christina to sit beside them, leaving her unsure of what to do.
It had been so long since Christina felt this kind of attention. Even though the two women were about her age, the feeling of being valued made her feel elated.
In the end, Christina chose to sit next to Diana. There was no other reason–despite feeling flattered, she still kept her wits about her and remembered her purpose for coming today.
She was here to help Brittany expand her network. Since there were too many uncertainties with Lauren, who might eventually learn about her poor relationship with Paisley, Diana seemed like the safer choice.
Today, Lauren had elevated her status because of Paisley. But next time, if Lauren found out the truth, she might turn against her.
So Christina was determined to connect with women who didn’t know Paisley. Once she and Brittany established strong relationships with these ladies, they’d naturally become Brittany’s network.
That way, she wouldn’t need to rely on Gregory or Paisley anymore. By then, Gregory might even come groveling to Brittany. With these thoughts, Christina became more certain that sitting next to Diana was the right choice.
However, she failed to notice Julia, who had to move further away because of Christina’s presence. Her gaze was dark and brooding
After sitting down, Christina spotted the lady who had introduced her to the group but later stopped inviting her and even hid her social media
posts.
‘Donna! Long time no see, Christina greeted smugly.
Donna forced a stiff smile. “Yes, long time no see.”
Christina wasn’t one to let things slide. Even when she was in the wrong, she’d still stir up trouble.
“By the way, why can’t I see your posts anymore?” she asked.
“I don’t think that’s true. I can see them just fine,” said another lady, unaware of the situation.
As soon as those words were spoken, an awkward silence fell over the group. The oblivious lady quickly realized something was amiss, put down her phone, and sipped her coffee while gazing out the window.
Donna laughed nervously, unsure how to respond, but internally, she cursed Christina a hundred times over. Whatever happened, she decided that she’d have her husband tear up the contract with the Sullivan family, even if it meant paying a penalty.
Christina, oblivious to the consequences her smugness would bring, remained full of self–satisfaction, her smile practically glued to her face. Fortunately, she still remembered her purpose for coming. She beckoned Brittany over to formally Introduce her to the group.
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“This is my daughter, Brittany,” Christina said with a soft, loving tone as she looked at her. “Brittany, say hello.”
Though a D–list actress, Brittany had some experience on stage. In front of the crowd, she composed herself, refraining from letting her gaze wander. Standing tall and elegant, she wore a serene smile.
“Good afternoon, ladies.” She then focused specifically on Lauren and Diana. “Hello, Lauren. Hello, Diana.”
Diana smiled back. While she could see through Christina’s intentions, she didn’t mind. After all, her target wasn’t this family–it was only Paisley. She never expected Nathaniel to achieve anything great. She just hoped he would settle down.
Over the years, Nathaniel’s reputation had worsened, making him less liked by the family elders. He was constantly involved in scandals, today with a campus queen, tomorrow with a small–time celebrity. But Diana knew all of that was not serious.
This time, however, it felt different. Otherwise, Nathaniel wouldn’t insist on returning home and opening a polo club.
Initially, Nathaniel just wanted to start an equestrian club, but Byron rejected it, saying the idea was too niche. Plus, among Harrowfell’s high society, there were very few people genuinely interested in horseback riding.
For most of them, horseback riding was just a casual pastime, something less appealing than a round of golf, which could close business deals. In the end, he had no choice but to establish the current polo club.
Yet not long after the opening. Byron sent him off to Brightmoor to manage a factory, all because of a phone call from Dominick. If Dominick hadn’t felt threatened, why would he have sent Nathaniel away?
So, there was only one explanation: Nathaniel was serious this time–he truly liked Paisley. As long as he liked her, Diana would help her son get her, no matter who the other person was,
Besides, Paisley was outstanding. So what if she’d been married and had a child? That didn’t matter at all. That’s why was willing to tolerate Christina and Brittany to secure Paisley.
Diana nodded approvingly at Brittany and complimented, “You and Serena are really beautiful.”
Being praised by Diana, Brittany was thrilled and replied, “Thank you, Mrs. Beaumont.”
“Just call me Diana,” said Diana.
Overwhelmed, Brittany sweetly called out, “Diana.”
Lauren was unwilling to be outdone. She chimed in, “You can call me Lauren.”
“Lauren, Brittany said, looking at Lauren with teary eyes. She was so close to calling this woman her mother–in–law.
Diana
If that had happened, she would have been like Julia, seated in a prominent spot, surrounded and flattered by the wealthy ladies.
Every smile, frown, or gesture of hers would set the trend for their behavior. It was all Paisley’s fault. Why did Paisley get to have such good fortune?
She had Dominick, a great husband, and Laurence, such a great mother–in–law, yet she didn’t cherish them and instead acted all high and mighty.
Lauren wasn’t aware of Brittany’s inner thoughts. Seeing her teary–eyed, she assumed she was just nervous and spoke more kindly. “Don’t be nervous. Just think of this as a casual family gathering. See, there are plenty of girls your age over there
- 100.
Lauren pointed toward a group of young ladies who had come with their mothers or mothers–in–law.
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“What do you do for work? Or are you still in school?” Lauren asked casually.
Mentioning her career, Brittany perked up. T’m an actress.”
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She firmly believed that among the ladies present, someone must be investing in film. If even one of them funded her or got her into a project, her acting career could be revived.
Just then, someone in the distance let out a faint mocking laugh. Though the laugh wasn’t loud, everyone heard it.
