Chapter 422: Forgive Me
Hayley’s POV:
Johnny made a deliberate effort to support me in front of everyone, making it clear just how much he valued me. I nodded slightly in acknowledgment. “I understand, Mr. Johnny.” He gave a quick nod before turning and walking away with his group, completely ignoring the other guests in the room.
As soon as he left, the entire atmosphere in the hall shifted. Everyone had witnessed the way Johnny treated me, and one by one, people began approaching me, all wearing carefully crafted smiles.
“Hello, Ms. Carson, I’m Tucker Rhodes from PowerTech. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Ms. Carson, you’re absolutely stunning. If you get a chance, you should check out our company. The future is looking very bright.”
“Ms. Carson, here’s my business card! I hope we can stay in touch.”
It was impossible to ignore that this sudden friendliness was all because of Johnny’s presence. Odessa soon altered her behavior, pulling me into a hug with exaggerated warmth. “Hayley, I’ve realized I was wrong. You’re such a kind and understanding person. For the sake of the Moon Goddess, you must have forgiven me by now, right?”
I raised an eyebrow and glanced at Benjamin. He gave a brief smile but said nothing. I appreciated his quiet trust in me, so I turned back to Odessa. “Mrs. Southwell, please, no need to be so formal. From now on, we’re family. I won’t hold anything against you.”
At my words, Odessa squeezed out a few fake tears and pulled me closer, her voice sugary sweet. “Oh, dear Hayz, you’re just a gem! It was all my fault before, and I’m so thankful that you’re willing to forgive me. However, I’m curious… how did you come to know Mr. Estrada?”
I paused for a moment before casually responding, “He was an old neighbor of mine from way back. There’s nothing special about our connection.” I purposely left out the fact that Johnny was my godfather. I didn’t want Odessa thinking she could use me to get closer to Johnny for her own benefit. From what I could see, she was far too manipulative, and I didn’t want Johnny’s involvement with me causing him any unnecessary trouble or losses.
As soon as Odessa heard my response, her attitude towards me cooled. She waved me off nonchalantly. “Alright, go ahead.”
Benjamin quickly added, “I’ll come with you.” Odessa shot us an irritated glance, noticing how closely Benjamin was sticking to me, but didn’t say anything else.
Hand in hand with Benjamin, I stepped out of the ballroom and began scanning the area. Curious, Benjamin asked, “What are you looking for?” I spotted a top-of-the-line Rolls-Royce ahead and said excitedly, “Let’s head over there.” Benjamin followed as we walked toward the car.
“Is that Mr. Estrada?” he asked. I nodded. “When Johnny was leaving, he gave me a silent signal, telling me to come out and meet him. That’s why I rushed over.” As I explained, I quickened my pace.
When we reached the car, the driver stepped out respectfully and opened the door for me. “Ms. Carson, please.” “Thank you,” I replied as I climbed inside, with Benjamin following me. The door closed smoothly, and the car began to move, pulling away from the venue.
“Johnny!” I called out, and Johnny’s face lit up with a grin. “You little rascal, you wouldn’t even admit you know me in public. Are you embarrassed to have me as your godfather?”
I quickly explained, “No, you misunderstood. It’s not like that at all. I just didn’t want to cause any problems.” After all, with someone like Johnny—who held so much influence—how many people would want to attach themselves to him? I had only acted like we were a bit more familiar, and already people were trying to use me to get close to him. Johnny, of course, was well aware of this, and I knew he was just teasing me.
“You’re getting smarter as you grow older!” Johnny remarked, but then his eyes turned to Benjamin. His expression hardened, and his gaze became sharp, unfriendly. What was going on with Johnny? I couldn’t help but feel concerned for Benjamin…