Chapter 5

Filip smirked, his gaze lingering on Cynthia. "So, you've got a boyfriend now, huh?"

Cynthia smiled, a playful edge to her voice. "Yep. You said if I ever felt lonely, I could find someone. I've been on my own for three years, and I figured, why not? Or is it only fine for you to have fun while I sit here twiddling my thumbs?"

Filip shrugged. "Well, if your boyfriend keeps you from bothering me, I'd throw him a thank-you party."

Honestly, Filip didn't believe for a second that Cynthia had actually found someone. He suspected she'd seen him talking to Lilian on the phone and was merely pretending. It was a convincing act—he could almost feel the jealousy radiating from the man on the other end of the line.

That night, they didn't sleep together. Cynthia took the bed; Filip made do on the floor. He still possessed a shred of gentlemanly pride.

Before bed, Cynthia cranked the air conditioning to its coldest setting and hid the remote. She woke in the middle of the night to see Filip curled on the floor, shivering and hugging a pillow. A wave of satisfaction washed over her.

The next morning, Filip woke with a cold. Cynthia didn't check on him, heading straight to the office. She was a well-known host at a local news station, primarily pushing for a segment called "Midday News Insight." She had a reputation in the industry. Recently, the prime-time host, Linda, had moved to a new station, and Cynthia had her sights set on Linda's former position.

Finishing her segment, she found herself free for the rest of the day. Around four o'clock, she returned to the Yates residence.

Shortly after Cynthia arrived home, Filip walked in, looking as though he'd just spent time with Lilian. Cynthia, having just changed into a fresh outfit and begun applying her makeup, was wearing a gorgeous silk dress with intricate embroidery around the neckline and waist. From a distance, the embroidery blended seamlessly with the fabric; up close, its delicate craftsmanship was impressive.

Spotting Filip, Cynthia stood and twirled gracefully. "What do you think? Do I look good?"

Despite his best efforts, Filip had to admit she looked incredible. At 5'7", she commanded attention in her heels. The dress hugged her figure perfectly, grazing her ankles and accentuating her slender legs. Her slim waist emphasized her curves.

Filip's gaze drifted from her neckline to her stunning face. The solid-colored dress highlighted her features, creating a unique charm that blended innocence with allure.

He swallowed hard, maintaining his cold exterior. "It looks horrible. White really isn't your color."

Cynthia rolled her eyes, turning to apply lipstick. "What? Are you saying only Lilian can pull off white?"

Finishing, she straightened and flashed a dazzling smile at his reflection. "I'm wearing white, like it or not."

Filip found her lively and captivating. Her spoiled, sassy tone held a playful edge that intrigued him.

But then he realized she was attempting seduction. He frowned. "Cynthia, stop messing with me. Even if you were wearing nothing, I wouldn't give you a second glance. I'll wait for you in the car." He left.

Ten minutes later, Cynthia hopped into the car. Filip leaned back, eyes closed, ordering, "Charlie, take me to Piedmont Manor."

An hour later, they reached the base of Piedmont Mountain. The car wound along a road lined with tall sycamore trees. The dense canopy created a shadowy tunnel, immersing them in another world.

The trees opened to reveal a grand building resembling a castle. The atmosphere was vibrant. The expansive lawn was dotted with luxury cars, and waitstaff in crisp white shirts and black vests greeted guests.

A staff member helped them park, then guided them into the "castle." Heavy doors swung open, revealing a long red carpet.

Cynthia paused, awestruck by the intricate carpet. It was a handwoven Parisian carpet from Isfahan, made of wool, cotton, silk, and threads of gold and silver. The vibrant colors and craftsmanship were breathtaking. The quality was exceptional—approximately $20,000 per square foot.

Gazing at the carpet, Cynthia gasped softly. She'd always known the Bennett family was wealthy; now she saw it firsthand.

Entering the villa, Cynthia's eyes widened further. The walls displayed ancient ceramics; a massive Emmeria grandfather clock stood tall; ornate chandeliers hung from the ceiling. This was just the banquet hall.

Susanna had opted for a classic hosting style. One hundred round tables lined the carpet, with place cards at each seat. Invitations had pre-assigned seating—the Yates family was at table 99.

Two women, Nora and Lucy, from prominent Roncrity families (and friends of Cynthia's mother, Selena), were chatting nearby.

"Look! Isn't that the director of the Department of Land Administration in the black suit? And the man in white—the mayor of Roncrity?"

"Forget the mayor of Roncrity; the mayor of Betrico is here, along with several high-ranking officials. Susanna must have incredible connections."

"Out of 100 tables, Roncrity only gets two invites, and we're at 99 and 100."

"Given the other important people, being at 99 and 100 is an honor."

Cynthia recognized them and greeted them politely. Nora and Lucy's expressions shifted to mild sympathy upon seeing Cynthia.

"Oh, Cynthia, you're here too," Nora exclaimed, surprised.

"Selena and Shirley are over there, giving Susanna gifts. You should go say hi," Lucy suggested, nodding towards a group.