Chapter 317: Calm Before the Storm

The chaotic scene was a rare sight. Ralph remained blissfully unaware that his bride, Yvonne, was consumed by thoughts of Aiden. She even contemplated discussing having children with him later.

Meanwhile, Aiden was miserable, wishing he were thousands of miles away, much to his father's dismay. His father repeatedly reprimanded him for his distance toward Yvonne. Aiden was nearly terrified when Yvonne seemingly attempted physical contact as she turned. Was it a subtle flirtation? He was so startled he likely wanted to change his clothes immediately.

Alexander, though initially intending to be more sympathetic, found himself amused by Isabella's observations. The Quirk family, informed by Isabella, also scrutinized the situation.

Selena observed, "Yvonne gave him a flirtatious look, but Aiden turned away."

Evian added, "Look! Wasn't Yvonne trying to switch drinks with Aiden? But he was quick enough to prevent it."

David exclaimed, "Is Aiden sweating? She even offered him a handkerchief in front of her husband!"

Aiden was clearly in a precarious situation. The nearby group began piecing things together. Ines noticed Aiden's restlessness and distress.

Elaine lamented, "It's pitiful. Should we just watch?"

"What else can we do?" Roland asked exasperatedly.

Damien cleared his throat. "He will maintain his innocence."

Deborah nearly choked on her coffee.

Soon, the trio offering toasts approached. Ines immediately went to Aiden's side, her concern evident. Despite trying to glare fiercely at Yvonne—like a cat with its tail between its legs—her swollen, red eyes from earlier crying betrayed her. Yvonne, focused on Aiden, noticed Ines and her eyes lit up.

Chapter 17 (Continued)

Isabella, sipping her drink, caught Yvonne's expression and started coughing violently, startling everyone. Alexander patted her back. Ralph, concerned, asked, "Are you alright?"

Isabella suppressed her cough. Internally, she made sarcastic remarks. Of course I'm not! I'm upset by your wife's actions! Is she surpassing Ines in Aiden's affections? Yvonne seemed to think Ines' tears were because of her. How smug!

Alexander glared at Yvonne. Why was she making presumptuous assumptions about his wife?

"Hehe, I'm fine, just choked," Isabella said.

Ralph gave Isabella a peculiar glance before moving on. Alexander, perceptive of others' opinions of Isabella, noticed her noticing Ralph's glance. He pondered its meaning. He heard the rumors about me. Now everything's smooth, he's pleased, thinking it's a joke. Even if it isn't, his arranged marriage isn't so bad. Ah, Ralph, you're overly confident.

The Quirk family overheard the gossip. They feared Ralph couldn't handle it. Not revealing things publicly was a kindness. Many guests likely regretted attending, hoping for gossip, and were relieved no major fuss had occurred.

Suddenly, a commotion erupted at the entrance. A woman, extravagantly dressed, burst in, yelling at Ralph, "Ralph, don't marry this deceitful woman! The child isn't yours!"