Chapter 1908: Good Timing
Flora Verba Group announced on its official website that James would become CEO. Paired with a picture of James, the announcement sparked excited online discussions, unexpectedly boosting his popularity. Comments included, “Mr. Lann is so handsome!” and “With such a good-looking CEO, I don't even need to chase after celebrities!” The revelation of some of James' past achievements further fueled the frenzy. His popularity surged unexpectedly.
Roxanne and Lucian were astonished; they'd gained not only a CEO but also a brand spokesperson. However, with their wedding the next day, they didn't dwell on it.
Elias and Sonya were overwhelmed. Numerous guests from the Farwell family's extended branches, many from overseas, were arriving for the wedding. Lucian's extensive network added to the scale of the event. He'd arranged for hotels under their company to dedicate themselves solely to wedding guests. The city of Horington felt the excitement. Lucian had preemptively contacted media outlets, minimizing online coverage.
That evening, the couple rehearsed the traditional wedding ceremony with the master of ceremonies at their newly purchased manor. The real estate agent, aware of the manor's significance, had expedited its completion. Exhausted, the couple returned to the mansion.
Sonya rushed in, her face grim. Hesitantly, she announced, “Lucian, Roxanne, something important. Roxanne's father, Grant, and stepmother, Winnie, unexpectedly arrived at the Farwell residence, seeking Elias and me. Elias is stalling them; I wanted to know your plans.”
Roxanne was stunned. She hadn't heard those words in years. Images of Grant's anger and Winnie's taunts after Lucian orchestrated her divorce flooded her memory. Their audacity to appear at the Farwell residence enraged her. An icy glint appeared in her eyes.
Lucian understood. He told his mother, “Appease them, send them to a hotel as wedding guests. I'll handle this later.”
Sonya nodded, observing Roxanne's defiance. A single glance conveyed the message. Roxanne added, “Mom, don't be overly courteous. They never treated me as their daughter. Do as you see fit. It's preferable if they don't attend the wedding.”
Roxanne felt a surge of anger. Their attempt at reconciliation the day before her wedding was transparent. She no longer believed in a normal family relationship with them; they weren't worthy of her time or kindness.
After Sonya left, Lucian comforted Roxanne. “You don't need to reconcile. Don't let them ruin your mood,” he reassured.
Though comforted, Roxanne remained uneasy. She suspected ulterior motives and feared unreasonable demands that could disrupt the Farwell family's celebration. She said, “Lucian, ignore any requests for betrothal money or gifts from my father. They're not entitled to influence our wedding.”