His Secret Millionairess Wife Chapter 9
The Bennett family, descending the stairs, encountered Lauren entering through the gate. Approaching them, Lauren nodded before addressing Mr. Bennett Senior as "Grandpa." This instantly led everyone to believe she was Mr. Bennett Junior's long-lost daughter.
All speculation, malicious gossip, and mocking stares ceased. The assembled guests were stunned by Lauren's beauty. Elegantly dressed in a red dress with subtle makeup, she captivated the audience without uttering a word. She radiated an aura of confidence.
Lauren's timely arrival brought immense relief to the Bennett family. Mr. Bennett Senior, looking worriedly at his granddaughter, asked, "Where have you been?"
Lauren smiled and replied, "A friend brought me."
Mr. Bennett nodded, deciding against discussing the matter at the banquet. He deemed it inappropriate. Instead, he presented Lauren to the gathering, publicly acknowledging her identity and announcing his intention to grant her a portion of his Bennett company shares immediately.
The crowd gasped at Mr. Bennett Senior's words. Among his grandchildren, only Mr. Bennett Junior's eldest son, Jeffery, already held shares; Sally and Darren did not. The newly returned Lauren was receiving preferential treatment.
Reporters and business associates quickly grasped Lauren's significance within the family. Despite her eighteen-year absence, she was the clear beneficiary of Mr. Bennett Senior's favor.
The audience's attention shifted to Sally.
Feeling the weight of disapproving gazes, Sally masked her embarrassment, feigning indifference. Determined to remain composed, she refused to let others belittle her. She vowed that one day, everyone would recognize her as the true lady of the Bennett family.
Following the banquet, the dancing commenced. Lauren was to open the dance, but with whom? Mr. Bennett Senior's gaze fell upon Sandy.
Sally, closely observing Mr. Bennett Senior and Lauren, realized his intention to pair Sandy with Lauren for the opening dance.
Sally clenched her fists, determined to prevent this. Such a pairing would signal Mr. Bennett Senior's preference for Lauren marrying into the Effie family over her.
She could sacrifice everything, but not allow Sandy and Lauren to dance together. Thus, she approached Sandy, saying, "Is your friend available to dance with Lauren?"
This veiled attempt to block the dance didn't escape Mr. Bennett Senior, who glared at her with displeasure. Sandy, with a playful expression, assessed Lauren, who stood beside Mr. Bennett Senior, and responded, "My friend is unavailable. But," she looked into Lauren's eyes, "would you, Lauren, care to dance with me?"
Sally's face paled.