Chapter 9

As soon as the thought crossed his mind, Hayden brushed it aside. No, back then, Yvonne was still in the country. The one who should have been by my side was Joanna.

“But Yvonne’s performance is truly shocking. She seems completely transformed, no longer the woman I remember—always in tears, using our parents' authority to threaten me.” My point hung in the air; the entire venue fell silent. Everyone held their breath, captivated by the lively music. It wasn't grand or sweeping, but it possessed a unique warmth that enthralled everyone. Even after the piece ended, the crowd remained lost in thought. Then, applause slowly rose, piercing the silence. I instinctively searched for its source. In the dim light, Marion was facing me—could he be the one clapping?

Right then, as if led by Marion, the crowd joined in. In a heartbeat, the venue erupted in cheers and applause.

“Absolutely incredible! I didn’t expect Mrs. Parker to be so talented.”

“Never knew she had this in her.”

“Truly, appearances can be deceiving. Mr. Parker is really lucky!”

I overheard these comments and couldn't help but think these people were opportunistic. A moment ago, they were eager to see me embarrass myself; now they called me Mrs. Parker with respect?

Lucy was the first to rush over, grabbing my arm, her smile bright. “Yvonne, that was a stunning performance. You were absolutely radiant, and you captivated everyone!”

“Let’s go,” I said, and we left the stage. Immediately, I noticed Nevin, looking pale.

“Someone’s about to lose his head. Didn’t you say you’d show her some respect?” Lucy said, noting Nevin’s pale face. “Decapitating him might be drastic, but a little respect is definitely in order.”

Nevin trembled, glancing at me reluctantly. “You’re lying! Why did you claim you couldn’t play before?”

“I never said I couldn’t,” I said, meeting his gaze coolly.

“You!” Nevin, realizing his mistake, didn’t want to lose face. He quickly turned to Hayden for support. “Look at Yvonne. She’s just stirring up trouble.”

Hayden, who usually backed Nevin, glared at him and snapped, “Enough! Isn’t this humiliating enough for you?”

Nevin fell silent.

I was surprised but didn't dwell on it. Knowing Nevin would eventually retract his words, I turned to Hayden. “I played the song, and everyone witnessed it. So, the piano’s mine, right?”

Earlier, Hayden had mentioned giving the piano to Joanna. If he bid against me, my chances of winning would be slim. Hayden frowned and glanced at Joanna, who stood behind him.

“Since Yvonne likes it, why don’t we—” Joanna began, feigning understanding.

But Yasir interrupted, “To be fair, how about Ms. Charlotte plays a piece too? Whoever plays best can keep it. What do you think?” He genuinely wanted to see which woman Hayden would choose.

Instantly, Joanna’s smile froze, and all eyes turned to her, including Hayden’s. If Hayden found out I was faking it, I’d be finished, she thought, her face paling as she scrambled for an excuse. “My hand’s been bothering me, so I think I’ll pass on playing.”

“What’s wrong?” Hayden asked, his eyes narrowing with concern.

“It’s nothing serious. Just a small burn from making your soup this morning,” Joanna replied, hiding her hand.

I listened, my stomach twisting.

Lucy rolled her eyes dramatically. “Oh, come on, they’re so mushy. It’s getting on my nerves.”

Just then, the auction manager approached, and Lucy and I followed him out.

“Mrs. Parker, our boss said the piano’s not up for auction. It’s a gift for you,” the manager said, smiling.

“A gift for me?” I was surprised. Who could be so generous?

Lucy’s eyes widened. “Who’s your boss?”

The manager gestured. “Mrs. Parker, he’s waiting for you over there.”

I frowned, curious. All I could see was a tall figure. I couldn’t identify him.

“Go check it out. I’ll wait here for you,” Lucy said, nudging me mischievously. She’d never been a fan of me chasing Hayden, and she always got excited when another man was around me.

“Don’t go too far,” I reminded her before approaching. As I drew closer, I recognized him instantly. “Mr. Warner?” I exclaimed, surprised—this piano belonged to Marion?

Marion seemed to have been waiting. When he saw me, a faint smile appeared in his deep eyes. “That piece earlier was truly captivating. This piano deserves the right owner.”

“You’re too kind. I can’t accept an eight-million-dollar piano without a reason,” I replied, shaking my head. I knew there was no such thing as a free lunch, and Marion wasn’t the type to make deals at a loss.

He sensed my hesitation and smiled reassuringly. “I’ve heard your family is strong in electronics, backed by a solid research team. If you’re willing to share some of those resources with me, then this piano isn’t just a freebie.”

“So you’re looking to collaborate?” I arched an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. Yes, with my new job at Parker Group starting tomorrow, things were getting complicated.

“What do you think? Is this big gesture enough for you?” Marion asked, still smiling.

That hit home. If I was serious about divorcing Hayden and breaking away from the Jacksons, I needed to establish my own identity. I hadn’t figured out my path yet, but Marion’s proposal offered a fresh chance.

After a moment, I nodded. “With an offer like that, how could I say no?”

“Then it’s settled,” Marion said, pleased.

We’d spoken briefly before, but I hadn’t really noticed him. Now, standing closer, I realized he seemed familiar, though I couldn’t place him.

“Mr. Warner, do we know each other from somewhere?” I asked casually.

Marion’s handsome face froze; disappointment flickered in his eyes before he masked it. “If you can’t place it, then we haven’t met. No need to dwell on it.”

His response was strange, and I was tempted to press him. But then, I saw Hayden striding toward us, his face stormy.