Chapter 3
Sebastian was taken aback by Daphne’s words. “Do you have any idea what you’re saying, Ms. Yeager?” he asked, staring at her in confusion. She seemed less like the beloved actress and more like a stranger, a monster sprung from nowhere.
Daphne anticipated his surprise. After all, as the eldest Turner son and his grandfather Steven's favorite grandson, Sebastian could date anyone. Why would he marry a divorcée like her? But he was the only one who could rival Wilson, and she needed Sebastian's influence to counteract Wilson's. Moreover, she wanted to ensure Wilson regretted his actions.
She'd starred in countless films and TV shows, and hated the trope of someone changing for a lost love. More importantly, she'd slept with Sebastian, and felt responsible for her actions.
“Let’s cut to the chase. Will you marry me or not? If not, I'll find someone else,” she said impatiently, reaching for the rings. Just as her fingers touched the box, Sebastian gripped her wrist.
His eyes glinted darkly. “Don't you have to tell me why you're choosing me?” he asked, his gaze cold despite a slight grin. He suspected a plot without a good reason.
“I can’t keep my assets without your help, Sebastian. Wilson will gradually take them back,” Daphne replied honestly. She wasn't business-savvy like Wilson; she was an entertainment veteran—attractive, fit, a skilled actress, and socially adept, but lacking business acumen. Previous business ventures had failed, resulting in losses from shops and a film project, even her large fanbase unable to help. She needed someone to protect her money.
“Wilson is scheming, an industry expert. You got nothing from years of competition; how could I? But marriage changes that. I can help you beat him,” she said seriously. “He converted half his assets to non-current assets and cash before giving them to me—only 12.5% of his shares.”
“12.5%?” Sebastian asked.
“Yes, he retains 53%, controlling the company.” Giving her half significantly hurt Wilson, but given Farrell Group’s influence and scope, he could easily recoup the loss. Daphne knew the amount meant nothing to him.
“Wilson is at his lowest. Now's the time to act,” she said, offering a tempting proposition.
Sebastian was intrigued. “Let me think about it.”
His response perplexed Daphne. In her past life, Sebastian had staunchly defended her when she fell for Wilson's trap. She'd thought she meant something special to him, but his reaction now suggested otherwise. Was she wrong?
Before she could ponder this, a familiar, hated voice interrupted.
“Oh my, Ms. Yeager! This important meeting is with Mr. Turner?” Yvonne exclaimed, drawing Wilson's attention. His expression darkened at the sight of Daphne and Sebastian together.
Daphne was speechless. The encounter in Serrington felt fated.
Sebastian leaned back, smirking, watching the unfolding drama. Securing a table in this cruise ship restaurant was difficult; Daphne had repeatedly asked Wilson to bring her, only to be told he was busy. Yet, he was here with Yvonne.
Trying to appear calm, Daphne ignored them, feigning a business discussion. “I’ll consider the endorsement, Mr. Turner. Your manager can discuss details with mine.”
“Endorsement?” Sebastian raised an eyebrow, chuckling. “I’ll consider your ‘requirements’ too, Ms. Yeager.”
Wilson interjected, his tone accusatory. “You're endorsing for Turner Group?”
“Yes. A problem?” Daphne replied. His coldness was palpable, even Yvonne noticing the shift.
Yvonne bit her lip, whimpering. “Ms. Yeager, you made such a fuss over Mr. Farrell and me, and we thought we owed you. But you and Mr. Turner…” She trailed off, letting Wilson fill in the blanks.
His expression soured. “Very well, then.” Wilson’s controlled demeanor masked his anger; only Daphne knew his true feelings. The endorsement was a mere smokescreen. In response, Wilson publicly announced Yvonne as the global ambassador for Story, Farrell Group’s high-end ready-to-wear line—a role inappropriate for Yvonne’s status and image.
The news went viral. Fans understood the significance. Yvonne's fans celebrated, finally able to counter Daphne's accusations of being a “homewrecker.” Online comments mocked Daphne, highlighting Wilson and Yvonne’s apparent reconciliation.
Daphne found it amusing, but her manager, Ava Cole, was furious. "Wilson is a bastard! You desperately needed that Story endorsement, and he refused, saying your image didn't fit, that he kept work and personal life separate—all bullshit! He throws all that out for Yvonne!”