The chatter grew louder, primarily emanating from young, affluent, and attractive women who had long forgotten Cedric's turbulent past—a time when he flaunted more than just his signature black attire.Sensing the envious glances directed her way, Vivienne managed a smile. Five years ago, she too had doubted Cedric's love for Sophie, evident in his ever-changing relationships and debauched lifestyle. However, she soon realized it was all a charade.It was similar to the present facade, with her arm intertwined with Cedric's. Everyone assumed he harbored a deep affection for her, especially considering the absence of other women. Yet, only she knew the truth: this was his method of tormenting and punishing her.'But what does it matter? I stand by his side today, and it will always be me!' With this thought, Vivienne's smile became more natural."Ladies and gentlemen, please quiet down. Now that everyone is here, let's begin tonight's program," announced Mr. Church, the host of the
Austin confidently raised his bidding paddle, his challenging gaze fixed on Cedric."3 million!" Cedric called out, his back still to Austin, stirring a wave of murmurs among the audience. The escalating bids between the Carlsons hinted at an impending public showdown.Unfazed, Austin increased his bid. "3.2 million."Cedric responded with a decisive "4 million," doubling the necklace's actual value and sending the crowd into a frenzy.The Carlsons' extravagant bidding war was a spectacle to behold.Vivienne's face betrayed her excitement, especially as envious glances fell upon her, filling her with pride. She knew Cedric would not let Austin win, no matter the cost. She imagined the necklace on her, and her smile widened uncontrollably.The eager audience waited for Austin to bid again, but he put down his paddle, letting Cedric have it."4 million once, 4 million twice, 4 million sold!"Only then did Cedric turn to look at Austin, his expression unreadable. 'He rarely attend
The room was abuzz with the bold declaration that someone would consistently outbid Cedric by 2 million.Everyone's curiosity was piqued, wondering about the identity of this mysterious and wealthy bidder.To their surprise, Cedric refrained from further bidding and quietly left the event, stirring a wave of murmurs and speculation."Wow! I never thought someone could overshadow Mr. Carlson like this," an attendee whispered.Another chimed in. "Indeed. I’m dying to know who this person is."As the crowd dispersed, still discussing the enigmatic buyer of the wood carving, the scene shifted.In the lounge upstairs, Sophie leaned against a window, draped in a flowing red gown. The light partially illuminated her figure, giving her a mystical aura. The off-shoulder design accentuated her delicate collarbone, her skin glowing softly in the dim light.Her assistant stood nearby, observing her with a mix of curiosity and concern, especially regarding the exorbitant price paid for the w
The spotlight pierced through the crowd, illuminating Vivienne as she elegantly approached to the stage, her hand lightly resting on Cedric's arm.Upon reaching the stage, Cedric graciously accepted the diamond necklace he had generously bid on."Mr. Carlson, thank you for your generous contribution to charity. This diamond necklace is now yours," Mr. Church announced.The necklace sparkled subtly under the lights, radiating understated elegance.Vivienne could not hide her excitement at the thought of him placing the necklace around her neck."How envious we all are of Mrs. Carlson. Even a modest necklace would seem priceless if Mr. Carlson were to put it around our neck," the women in the audience whispered amongst themselves, their words filled with a mix of envy and admiration.However, Cedric appeared disinterested in their comments, his sharp gaze scanning the crowd for someone familiar.Mr. Church then announced, "Next, I'd like to invite the CEO of Paramount Inc., Helen,
For five years, he had meticulously carved the piece, every stroke embodying his longing. And now, at last, it lay in her hands."Speaking of this carving, it’s actually a creation of Mr. Carlson," Mr. Church almost revealed too much, his gaze briefly landing on Vivienne's ashen face. He decided against divulging more, feeling some ties were not so easily broken.The audience was astonished.'Cedric crafted the wooden carving? Its sentimental value alone makes it priceless!'While the crowd lamented not bidding on it, Sophie casually toyed with the carving. Suddenly, it slipped from her grip and shattered on the floor.The room fell silent."Oh dear, I couldn’t hold onto it. What a shame, wasting Mr. Carlson’s effort." Her feigned regret thinly veiled her true emotions. The carving’s destruction seemed insignificant to her.Cedric’s pupils constricted, but he remained composed. He lightly commented, "That slip cost 4 million.""So what?" Sophie retorted coldly. "It seems that e
Vivienne's heart stung from Sophie's words, and she struggled to maintain her composure. She forced a smile on her pale lips. "Whether or not I'm officially part of the Carlson family doesn't matter. As long as Cedric loves me and I am the one by his side, that’s all I need."Sophie expected such a response, her red lips curling into a slight laugh. "Exactly, like this necklace. I didn't want it, so it's defaulted to you."Every word from Sophie felt like a deep cut to Vivienne. Everyone had witnessed her longing for the necklace, anticipating Cedric to give it to her. However, Cedric's decision to offer the favored piece to Sophie first was akin to a direct slap in Vivienne’s face."Mrs. Carlson seems unwell. Should we take her to the hospital?" Sophie's tone dripped with sarcasm as she turned away, leaving Cedric without a glance at Vivienne.Sophie Luxford was the one and only Mrs. Carlson.Amidst the bustling crowd, Vivienne sensed the spectators' disdain, fueling her desire f
Sophie was taken aback by Austin’s invitation to dance in front of Cedric. She hesitated for a moment before accepting.As they moved to the dance floor, Cedric watched them intently, his mood visibly darkening. In an unexpected move, he reached out and pulled Vivienne into the dance floor, following Sophie and Austin.The melodious music framed the elegant dancing of the two couples, yet the atmosphere was anything but relaxed. The complex relationships among them—Cedric’s former wife and his current partner, entwined with the eldest Carlson heir—transformed the dance into a display of complicated emotions.Halfway through the song, Cedric let go of Vivienne and approached Austin, who casually declined the implicit invitation with a shake of his head. Feeling awkward, Vivienne was about to return to Cedric when Sophie unexpectedly took her hand."Ms. Kerrigan, how about I accompany you for this dance?" Sophie suggested.Caught off guard, Vivienne attempted to withdraw but found h
"Yes, I’ve always known where Sophie was. I was the one who saved her from the sea five years ago," Austin confessed, his tone unusually stern and cold. "The Sophie you knew, Cedric, was destroyed by you and Vivienne. The woman she is now is different. She's a woman you don't deserve," he added.If not for Austin's vigilance against Vivienne’s actions, arranging for someone to be ready, Sophie would have died in the cold sea.Cedric's eyes hardened as he recalled that fateful day from five years ago, a mix of pain and unspoken emotions evident. He gazed at Sophie, who sat nearby with calm composure, and spoke in a deep, commanding voice. "As long as she remains the same person at her core, she is my wife, your cousin-in-law. It's not your place to judge whether I deserve her or not."Austin met Cedric's gaze with an equally cold look."Time will tell," he replied.Sitting by the fountain, Sophie noticed Austin approaching and glanced at Cedric, who stood alone. With just one loo