Reading Juicy Gossip in Her Mind

Chapter 223: I Do Not Fancy Plastic Surgery

The Quirk and Ford families, enjoying a close relationship, attended the wedding together. The four women entered arm in arm, followed by the four men. Their striking attractiveness immediately drew attention. Quirk Group's recent successful major project further enhanced their impressive image, arousing both envy and admiration.

Rumors circulated that the youngest Quirk sibling might be leaving the entertainment industry to study abroad. This was seen as a significant move for Quirk Group, potentially a strategy to unite the siblings, share Alexander's legacy, and increase their influence within the company—given the family's complex internal dynamics. Many sought to gather information to benefit their own dealings.

After greeting acquaintances, the Quirks were heading toward the Ford manor when they spotted Stephanie in the crowd. Rosalie, curious, asked Selena, "Who is that?"

Selena replied, "She's Linda's abandoned daughter." While Stephanie occasionally visited her grandparents, and the Pearson family (connected to Selena's) had met her once or twice, there seemed to be no connection between the Nox/Pearson families and the Fords. Stephanie's presence was therefore unexpected. Isabella, observing Stephanie, exclaimed, "Wow, a beauty."

The Quirk family assessed Stephanie. Attractive and unlike her mother, she possessed a classic aloof beauty—cold, reserved, and seemingly high-minded. Upon seeing David and Selena, Stephanie, polite and possessing a good memory, approached them.

It was then they noticed she was with a man who seemed out of place. Casually dressed with a roguish charm, he nevertheless exuded affluence. His scrutinizing gaze, however, made others uneasy.

"Mr. and Mrs. Quirk, it's been a while," Stephanie greeted.

"Stephie, you're here for Roland's wedding too?" Selena laughed.

"I came with my boyfriend. I didn't expect to see you here," Stephanie replied, explaining her recent return from abroad. The Nox family's overseas business focus had reduced their interactions with domestic high society, leaving Stephanie unfamiliar with the local network. Her boyfriend, presumably connected to the Fords, was the reason for her attendance.

"You've really grown up. Last time I saw you, your grandmother mentioned you were single," Selena said, laughing.

Even Stephanie blushed slightly at this.

"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Quirk, I'm Ethan, Stephie's boyfriend. I was lucky enough to win her over three months ago," Ethan greeted.

Selena politely introduced the rest of the family. Isabella, however, found something unsettling about Ethan.

Christopher later remarked, "That Ethan—his face looks surgically enhanced. I wonder what he originally looked like."

Rosalie and Evian agreed, noting the unnatural stiffness of his expressions. Isabella realized this explained her unease. She mused, "Even men undergo plastic surgery for beauty." She added, "I don't like plastic men. Alexander's face is much more pleasing."

Alexander, finding Ethan's name familiar and flattered by Isabella's comment, impulsively approached her, almost touching arms. Isabella, assuming it was a polite gesture for a formal event, took his arm. Alexander stiffened, his expression becoming unnatural. The Quirk family witnessed his tension. They muttered about it being embarrassing if others saw.

The Quirk family had become rather nonchalant about such minor interactions, only reacting to hugs or kisses. The manor was crowded with guests, including friends of Evian, Rosalie, and Christopher. They dispersed upon arrival. Lacking a strong desire for early gossip, they arrived later, encountering Alexander's friends, including Roland, who looked exceptionally handsome in formal attire. They were discussing the bride's reception. Sasha's lack of relatives meant her apartment served as her natal home, with colleagues and classmates waiting to collect her.

"Perfect timing, Alexander, Isabella, will you join us?" Roland asked excitedly. "Let's fetch the bride!" Even Deborah joined the festive atmosphere. Alexander, unusually, looked forward to the experience and sought Isabella's agreement. She readily consented.

During their car journey, Ines curiously asked Clifford, "Why didn't you bring anyone today?" (referencing Zendaya). Clifford grumbled about Zendaya's tantrum after he watched a video of her overseas performance. He assumed she was playing hard to get, unaware that her contract had ended and she left happily. Isabella silently amused herself at Clifford's self-righteousness.

Chapter 224: Illegitimate (Title from fragment)