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Chapter 18: Pride Comes Before the Fall

Author: Ojay Tales
last update Last Updated: 2024-11-21 02:57:51

"How dare you!" Ava's shrill voice cut through the shocked silence. "Such vulgar behavior at Mr. White's birthday celebration!"

Ashlyn turned slowly, her eyes glacial. "Shut. Up."

"I beg your pardon?"

"Did I stutter?" Ashlyn's smile was razor-sharp. "Or should I remind everyone about your own... vulgar behaviors?"

"Grandfather," Ashlyn addressed Steven directly. "I apologize for disrupting your party, but I won't stand here and be humiliated."

Christopher touched his bleeding temple, finally registering the sea of phones recording everything. "You... you all saw what she did!"

"We saw plenty," Mrs. White's voice dripped disappointment. "Including what led to it."

Steven White's face was thunderous. "Christopher."

"She's changed!" Christopher pointed accusingly. "The old Ashlyn would never—"

"The old Ashlyn?" Ashlyn laughed bitterly. "You mean the one you could manipulate? The one who stayed silent?"

"That's not—"

"Tell them, Christopher." Ashlyn's voice carried. "Tell them why I chang
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