Chapter 173: Do You Think I'm Useless?

Bella thought Dominic was exaggerating; getting lost in a hotel was ridiculous. But upon reaching the first floor, she was astonished. A giant crystal chandelier gleamed from the ceiling, illuminating a grand fountain and angel sculptures. The lobby was unimaginably large.

Moments before, she had doubted Dominic, but now she tightly clutched his arm. It was customary to bring a gift to a wedding. While these wealthy people might disregard common customs, they certainly didn't skimp on gifts.

At the gift table, they were greeted by a designated hostess. Dominic handed her a check and the wedding invitation. The hostess smiled pleasantly and led them to the elevator, even pressing the button for the wedding floor.

Bella was curious about the check's amount but didn't dare ask, fearing she would appear poor or naive. Once they exited the elevator, staff guided them to their seats. Dominic's status secured them prime seating.

Bella couldn't stop looking around. The wedding venue was exquisitely furnished, exuding elegance and romance. White was the dominant color; a long aisle was lined with beautiful white roses, their scent filling the air. The decor seemed more appropriate for a young couple, not for Steven, a man in his forties getting married for the fourth time. Clearly, the bride had significant input into the theme, and she was likely young. Steven’s apparent prioritization of this fourth wife was curious.

Suddenly, Bella whispered to Dominic, "Do you think Ian's stepmother is younger than him?" Immediately regretting her question, she assumed he wouldn't be interested. To her surprise, he replied indifferently, "It's hard to say."

She sighed. "I never imagined Ian's family was so wealthy. This entire hotel belongs to them, yet he works hard at the hospital. I used to think most wealthy heirs only partied, but he's the perfect example of a hardworking second-generation heir."

Dominic's eyes narrowed, a sense of menace flashing in them. "So, you think I'm one of those useless wealthy heirs who only knows how to party?"

Bella was stunned. "Don't take it personally! I never said that. I think you, Ian, and Leonard are hard-working and not the kind to trifle with women. By the way, do you think Ian will come today?"

He paused. "He might. Though he didn't want to come, this is the first time his father has contacted him in years."

As the wedding ceremony was about to begin, Ian hadn't arrived, but a seat was reserved for him in the front row. Music began, silencing the hall. Steven walked to the stage to speak.

Despite being in his forties with some gray hair, he didn't look old. His face was unlined, and he stood tall and straight, retaining youthful charm. He bore a striking resemblance to Ian; he must have been a heartthrob in his youth.

The bride, accompanied by her father, entered. As expected, she was young and beautiful. In fact, Steven's father-in-law might be younger than him. While some guests might have silently mocked the pairing, no one dared to vocalize it. However, Dominic's expression darkened upon seeing the bride; his gaze fixed on her.