Chapter 125

Herbert could scarcely believe Trevon's words. In Herbert's mind, Trevon epitomized proper etiquette. Though cousins, and their families—the main and fourth branches—were amicable, Herbert always addressed Trevon as Mr. Brady in company. Yet, here was Trevon casually mentioning "sister-in-law," instead of leaving it to his secretary. This, combined with their affectionate gestures, was shocking. Herbert had heard rumors of Trevon's affection for Selina, but this was a revelation.

"Yes, there's a charity auction this afternoon," Trevon said. Herbert refocused and resumed his work briefing.

Trevon rarely attended such events; even sending Andrew as a representative was considered a significant courtesy. With Selina temporarily filling Andrew's role at Insight Group, Andrew had been given a few days off. "That sounds like fun, honey. Why don't you let me go?" Selina interjected, her eyes shining with excitement.

"Sweetheart, have you forgotten you're my personal secretary?" Trevon's displeasure was evident. He found Selina's attempt to escape her duties unacceptable, wanting to chastise her for such thoughts.

"Oh, come on, please, hubby. You know I can't stay cooped up in the office all the time! A field assignment like this would be refreshing, don't you think?" Selina employed her coquettish charms, playfully shaking Trevon's arm, oblivious to the discomfort of those around them.

Herbert's mouth twitched. He judged that any woman using such a tone with Trevon was either suicidal or courting a harsh rebuke. But Selina was different. Her charms gradually wore down Trevon's resolve. He leaned in and whispered, "Fine, I'll let you go. But how will you reward me, since it's an exception?"

Trevon wanted Selina close, commuting together, avoiding her slipping away at the first opportunity, sometimes even missing dinner.

"All right, all right, I'll reward you when I get back. Happy?" Selina said with a flourish.

Finally, Trevon agreed, allowing Herbert to attend the auction with Selina. Herbert felt liberated, relieved to escape the intense display of affection. He feared prolonged exposure might prove overwhelming. The scene would take time to process.

Selina laughed. "Your cousin's not bad. He gave a detailed report without panicking."

"Oh, he hasn't seen anything yet. If you'd kissed me just now, he probably would've fled," Trevon teased.

Selina rolled her eyes. "Geez, Trevon, you're the worst!"

At three o'clock, Selina and Herbert departed in Insight Group's car. Herbert's earlier condescension was gone, replaced by silence as he gazed out the window. Yet, his glances towards Selina were frequent, though fleeting.

Selina chuckled. "If you want to look, just do it openly. Sneaking peeks—what kind of man does that make you?"

"I… I wasn't sneaking peeks," Herbert stammered, his tone betraying him. He pretended to sleep, leaning against the window.

Selina smiled faintly, remaining silent.

The charity auction, scheduled for four o'clock, was nearby. Arriving early, Selina and Herbert had time before taking their seats.

Herbert remembered something important. "Just don't go bidding on everything," he warned. "The company has given us a budget. We're just there for appearances."

He worried Selina, known for her impulsiveness and now Trevon's wife, might overspend.

"A budget? How much?" Selina asked.

"Six point three million dollars."

"Fine. If I see something I like, I'll use my own money. You just worry about your 6.5 million dollars," Selina said, confidently entering the venue.

Herbert fumed—it was still Trevon's money! He followed reluctantly, knowing Trevon would likely indulge Selina.

Inside, before Selina could sit, she heard, "Selina?"

It was Ashley. Selina felt a resurgence of unwelcome attention.

"Don't call me that; we're not close," Selina cut her off sharply.

Despite severing ties with the Harvey family, she couldn't escape them. Sara's presence made sense, but Selina wouldn't tolerate trouble. It wasn't about avoidance; it was about them keeping out of her way.

"Ashley, we'll talk later," Sara whispered, pulling Ashley aside. She then addressed Selina, "After the auction, I have things to discuss."

Selina didn't respond. "I think there's nothing to talk about. Wouldn't it be nice if we went our separate ways?"

"I need to explain. You are my daughter," Sara insisted, leaving with Ashley.

Sara's departure left Selina smirking. She thought, Do the Harveys really think the world revolves around them? That I'll sacrifice my life for them? I'll never fall for their tricks again!

Herbert observed the exchange. He knew of Selina's estrangement from the Harvey family, but not the depth of it. How could a seemingly troubled Selina captivate Trevon? Selina was a world-class designer, undeniably beautiful and talented—far beyond the reach of an average man. But Trevon, with his status and looks, could easily find someone else. Selina, despite her talent, carried too much baggage, making her an unsuitable match for Trevon, in Herbert's opinion.