Chapter 52 (Part 1)
Archie and Madison quickly calmed down. They realized Cameron was more complex than they'd initially thought.
"Madison," Archie asked in a low voice, frowning, "didn't you say he was a moocher?"
"He is, honey," Madison huffed, gritting her teeth. "A good-for-nothing moocher! He was a househusband who took advantage of me for five years!" She was bewildered by the current situation.
"I see," Archie said, taking a deep breath. "Let's wait until Mr. Dashner arrives."
"Okay," Madison nodded, frustration simmering. She didn't mind Cameron mooching off her, but she couldn't accept that he'd become a better person after leaving her. He was now beyond her reach! He was supposed to be a broken toy!
The four of them returned to the private room.
"You're here, Mr. Morgan, Ms. Jennings!" Caspian greeted them warmly.
"Hello, Lord Caspian," Dakota replied.
"Just call me Caspian, Ms. Jennings," Caspian said, swallowing hard. "Ms. Jennings, feel free to use my name if anyone troubles you in Yrando. I doubt anyone's foolish enough to cross you!" He glared at Archie.
Archie and Madison's faces fell. They offered apologetic smiles. "Of course, Lord Caspian. It was a misunderstanding!"
Stella and the others chimed in quickly, "They're right, Lord Caspian. Dakota is our friend. Why would we cause her trouble?" They regretted supporting the wrong side. That foolish Madison had led them to believe the banquet was for Archie's connection with Timothy. In reality, it was for Cameron!
Madison felt the accusing stares, her cheeks burning. How would she face them now?
"Alright, since everyone's here, let's begin the banquet," Caspian announced.
Chapter 52 (Part 2)
"Have a seat, Mr. Morgan, Ms. Jennings!" Caspian gestured to his men, who quickly brought chairs for the couple.
"My apologies, Mr. Morgan, Ms. Jennings. I should have helped you with the chairs myself, but my arms…" Caspian looked embarrassed.
"It's fine, Lord Caspian," Dakota reassured him kindly. "We're partially to blame. Please don't worry about it."
"No, it was my fault for believing a lie," Caspian said, giving Archie and Madison another angry look. They paled and lowered their heads immediately.
"Bring in the dishes, Jimmy!" Caspian ordered.
"Right away, sir!" Jimmy responded.
The dishes were soon served. Caspian stood, having his men pour him a glass of red wine. "Mr. Morgan, Ms. Jennings, I apologize for my actions yesterday. Thank you for forgiving me. A toast to you!" He had his men raise his glass before drinking.
"Impressive, Lord Caspian!" the crowd cheered.
Stella and the others toasted Cameron and Dakota in apology. "We're sorry, Dakota. It was the heat of the moment. We ask for your and your boyfriend's forgiveness."
"She's right, Dakota. Please forgive us."
"Your boyfriend is so humble, Dakota!"
"Can we still be friends, Dakota?"
Suddenly, everyone surrounded Cameron and Dakota, ignoring Archie and Madison, who were pushed to the corner. They were supposed to be the stars, but now…
They wanted to leave, but couldn't. Timothy wasn't there yet! Why? Madison realized Cameron and Dakota must have bribed Caspian to prevent Timothy's arrival. Caspian must be siding with them! This was Cameron's usual tactic—bribery, like the time he got on the Venizon Cruise by bribing the guards.
Chapter 52 (Part 3)
Madison gritted her teeth. She would expose Cameron and reclaim her spotlight!
Chapter 53
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