Calista had been eager to see how thick-skinned Zachary could be to make up tall tales that could be debunked at a moment's notice. But the waiter pushed open the door. All three people inside turned to look at her …She smiled as she walked in and took her seat beside Lucian. She would've preferred to sit elsewhere but it was the only empty seat available."What were you discussing?" she asked.Lucian smirked."We were discussing your close bond with your sister and how you've spoiled her." The man was aware of Calista's family's circumstances. He knew when her mother had passed away and when her stepmother came into the picture.He also knew when Zeke had punished Calista for Nikolette's sake, down to what day she failed to show up at school. He knew every detail.The woman looked up to see Zachary throwing her nervous looks. He looked ready to answer for her. "Yes, we do have quite the bond. After all, it's been so many years and she's still up and kicking," she said plac
Calista snapped back to her senses as he inched closer. She found her gaze fixed on the man's lips and unconsciously leaned back. But as soon as she moved, Lucian pulled her into his embrace."Ten minutes."There was no rhyme or reason to his words. And yet, she understood what he meant.The man's scent was familiar to her despite the lack of intimacy throughout their three years together. She had no choice but to lean against his chest and listen to the sound of his steady heartbeat.Apart from the thumping of his heart, the world was silent.At that moment, she found herself unable to push him away. Perhaps it was because of the exhaustion from the recent argument that she felt drained.She relaxed and allowed herself to lean fully against Lucian."He used to treat me like that too."It had been a long time since then. She needed time to recall the details carefully. Calista spoke slowly but Lucian didn't interrupt her. He didn't show a trace of impatience.If the executives
The attendees of the auction were all from the same social circle. They were people who met one another regularly.Upon hearing that, someone immediately chimed in, "Are you sure? How did you know?"The invitations were only presented at the entrance and Lily was just climbing up the steps."Her invitation fell to the floor when she got out of the car. I happened to see it and it looked like it said 'Northwood'."Northwood was not a common surname. It was also associated with someone of great influence and status. Who else could it be but Lucian Northwood?"They've both been on the news before. The dancer fell off the stage and was carried away by Mr. Northwood. Now she's attending the auction with his invitation. Something seems to be going on."The noblewoman who was chatting with Selena knew about Lucian's marriage and said with righteous indignation, "These people don't know anything at all. There they go running their mouths again. It's like they forgot all their morals back
Calista, who had wanted to play matchmaker, blinked in confusion. She stared wide-eyed at how calm Selena was with her blatant lies. How was she supposed to react? When on earth had she thrown up?And compared to Lily, who could barely catch her breath, she was well enough to knock out a cow! She didn't look ill at all.But, Calista's series of thoughts barely affected the media's focus. They had their cameras aimed at her. Among the paparazzi were well-informed individuals who had heard about the goings on.Only, they hadn't seen the two of them together or received any sort of official announcement. Thus, they remained uncertain of the news' authenticity.Now that Selena Jenkin, the mother-in-law, had confirmed it herself, there was no longer any doubt."Mrs. Northwood, are you aware that Ms. Scott is here at the auction with your husband's invitation?""Do you think Ms. Scott is aware of your marriage to Mr. Northwood?"A majority of the journalists crowded around Calista whe
Hector Calloway thought he had the wrong person at first. He shot Calista a casual glance when she first walked in. He couldn't be certain then. Now, he was sure it was her."I thought you looked familiar when you walked in. It is you."He sat down in the chair next to her with his legs spread out in front of him in a bold manner."Have you seen the catalog? Is there anything you like? I'll buy them for you."A catalog was placed on each seat. The booklet provided details about the items being auctioned for the day. Calista was just about to respond when Lucian spoke coldly. It was as if he were looking to pick a fight."I believe that isn't your seat, Mr. Calloway."It was only then that Hector noticed Lucian. He raised a brow."Who's this, Calista?"The two men locked eyes. One was arrogantly assertive while the other was cold and composed. There was a dark look in Lucian's eyes as he wrapped his arm around Calista's shoulder in a possessive manner."I'm her husband.""Husb
There was a striking look in the woman's eyes. The way she smiled provocatively resembled a sly fox.Lucian thought about what Calista had said before. It was about how she wasn't going to let him have it both ways. He frowned.In the time they were exchanging quips, the auctioneer had enthusiastically begun to announce the bids once more.Calista raised her bidding card once more, adding the minimum increment allowed. It was as if she were trying to tease a cat.Others who were interested in the bracelet could feel the growing tension in the air and stopped competing for it. It wasn't worth offending someone for a bracelet.The pale-faced Lily gritted her teeth. She could tell what Calista was up to and decided not to bid any further.In the end, it was Calista who got the bracelet. The auction continued, but she got up and left the venue.Calista was a conservator restorer and often worked with jewelry worn by ancient dignitaries and nobles. The craftsmanship was exquisite and
The SUV let out a resounding roar as the door closed. They weren't going particularly fast because Calista had yet to fasten her seatbelt. But, the noise was enough to attract the attention of half the hotel.By the time Lucian reached the entrance, all he could see was the red glow of the tail lights flashing in the darkness.His gaze remained fixed in that direction. The look in his eyes was darker than the starless night sky. His lips were pressed into a thin line in displeasure.An injured Lily came outside with the assistance of a staff member."I'll go get a car, Ms. Scott. Please wait a moment.""Alright."She stood by Lucian. Due to the ache in her ankle, she had to lean against the doorframe to keep her balance.She had to change out of her high heels into disposable hotel slippers, making her swollen ankle look even worse.He turned his attention to her and parted his lips. Lily knew he had something to say when she sensed his gaze on her. She interrupted him."You s
Hector had looked into Lucian during the auction. There was not a peep about Calista's marriage to him. All he saw was rumors about him with another woman. To him, Lucian was not a good person!Moreover, the two of them were already getting a divorce. What he was doing was tantamount to stalking. With that thought in mind, Hector squared up.His stance was casual as he poked his tongue in his cheek. He looked doubtful."Can't you tell she doesn't want anything to do with you? You're oh so rich and noble. You're well-educated, aren't you? Take a hint, eh?"Lucian rolled his eyes with a brooding intensity."Who do you think you are to interfere in our affairs?"His deep voice enunciated every word. From how he presented himself, he looked like a gentleman in a suit and tie who could be taken out with one hand.But deep down, he gave off a feeling of violent aggression. Both were hot-blooded men who didn't tolerate blatant provocation.Neither of them seeing eye to eye only added