Chapter 119

The menacing darkness in Hayden’s eyes receded slightly, revealing a hint of tenderness. Yvonne, strikingly beautiful, smiled as she deftly managed her surroundings. Her delicate features, especially her large, expressive eyes, seemed to speak volumes. Beneath her dainty nose, rosy lips resembled a delectable cupcake, inviting a nibble. His gaze drifted downward; her collarbones were exquisite, butterfly-like, captivating his attention. Her sleek, alabaster shoulders and slender waist, easily encircled by a single hand, were equally alluring. Hayden had never before noticed how stunning she looked in purple. At that moment, she carried herself with the grace and nobility of a queen, her innate cool and captivating charm emanating effortlessly, like a rare orchid in a secluded valley, overshadowing everything around her.

Even Zachary was amazed. He had seen many beautiful women, but none as breathtaking as Yvonne. Previous beauties, though pretty, always possessed a hint of vanity or pride; Yvonne had none of that. She embodied coldness and purity, existing in her own realm, seemingly unattainable.

Zachary thought, "What a wonderful woman," truly one to desire. Even in his admiration, he observed Hayden's expression, noting the same amazement in his eyes. Puzzled, Zachary wondered how Hayden, having spent so much time with Yvonne, had never seen this side of her. He couldn't help but wonder if their marriage had disillusioned her with love.

Lost in thought, Sean leaned in and whispered to Zachary, "There's someone else in the car."

Zachary's heart clenched. He spun around, his eyes scanning the vehicle, searching for a glimpse of the passenger. Yvonne hadn't come with Hayden, he thought. She'd arrived with another man! Even without seeing him, murderous intent simmered in Zachary's heart.

Hayden's thoughts mirrored Zachary's. He mused, "Yvonne declined to arrive with me. Who did she come with? And whose car is this?"

Amidst their intense scrutiny, Lucy emerged from the car. A shrewd girl, she understood their thoughts. Chuckling, she remarked, "Yvonne, you look stunning! Everyone's eyes are on you!"

My face stiffened. "Are they just waiting to laugh at me if I mess up? Even Joanna is here."

Lucy asked, "Huh? Hayden brought her?"

"She texted me, threatening vengeance," I replied calmly. "I've been receiving many such messages lately. I suspect Sophia sent similar ones to my mother in the past, since Joanna was trained by her…"

It was under the weight of this pressure and humiliation that my mother, feeling utterly hopeless, had taken her own life.

"She's insane!" Lucy rolled her eyes. "You haven't blocked her yet?"

I chuckled. "I want to see what else she's capable of." Actually, I was eager to understand how Sophia had pushed my mother to the brink. I felt compelled to experience it myself. Unaware of this, Lucy pulled me into the venue.

"Hurry up and get inside! Tonight, you'll definitely be the center of attention! I can't wait to see Hayden's regretful face! Haha! Just thinking about it is so satisfying!"

I knew what Lucy hoped for, but couldn't burst her bubble. Someone like Hayden would never feel regret, especially over me; right now, he looked at me like I was a monster.

"Let's put this aside. Later, help me track down Bert Torres," I reminded her.

"Why?" she inquired.

"He holds shares in the Jackson Group, and I'm interested in purchasing them," I explained.

Lucy suddenly stopped and turned to me. "Don't you already have the most shares?"

"I'm still short of Bert's shares," I said firmly. "It's not enough to sell the company."

Just then, Zachary approached. "Ms. Jackson, you're stunning tonight… May I have the honor of being your dance partner?"

As he spoke, I saw Hayden behind him. "Sorry, I already have a dance partner," I bluntly rejected Zachary.

Lucy, beside me, stifled a giggle. Zachary, noticing my expression, deliberately raised his voice. "Oh, could it be Mr. Parker!"

"Of course not," I replied, heading into the venue with Lucy.

Passing Hayden, I deliberately avoided eye contact, pretending he was invisible. Soon, Lucy whispered, "Did you see that? Hayden couldn't take his eyes off you." I gave a cool smile, unconcerned, and scanned the room.

Bert was a close friend of my grandfather. They had built the company together. Later, Bert retired after great success, and my grandfather gave him some shares. In other words, to sell the Jackson Group, I needed Bert's approval.

Upon entering, I greeted familiar faces. Eventually, I spotted Bert, his hair grizzled, his face wrinkled.

"Mr. Torres," I approached, wine glass in hand, greeting him with a smile.

Bert turned, recognizing me immediately. "Oh, it's you, Yvonne! It's been a while, and you haven't changed much since you were a kid!"

Given his age, everyone probably seemed young to him. "You're still hale and hearty, Mr. Torres," I replied encouragingly. Seizing the opportunity, I clarified my purpose.

Bert's smile froze. "You want to sell the Jackson Group! That's your grandfather's legacy!"

He was upset. The older generation worked hard to build their businesses, intending to pass them down. No one wanted to give that up.

I had anticipated his reaction, so I wasn't nervous. I sighed and said, "Mr. Torres, you must have heard about our family situation. My father plans to leave the Jackson Group to his son, so it won't concern me anymore."

This diffused much of his anger. He gritted his teeth and sighed. "This company was left to you by your grandfather, and your father should have some shares too. Does he know you're doing this?"

"He's not my father anymore," I said casually, as if it were unimportant.

He was stunned. He never expected the Jackson family to be in such a mess.

"Yvonne, I'm sure you have your reasons, but as an old friend of your grandpa, I can't just watch you sell off his business."

Bert's refusal made me frown. It seemed I had to put in extra effort. Just then, Hayden walked over and said, "Mr. Torres, we're willing to buy your shares at a high price."