Chapter 113

Marianne clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms. She felt no pain, only humiliation. Lowering her gaze, she bowed slightly. "Miss Hayes, I'm sorry. I was wrong!"

The clatter of a coffee cup on the table echoed in the tense silence, making the Mitchell family flinch. Vivienne's gaze rose to meet Marianne's. Her voice was calm but firm. "Let this be the last time."

Without waiting for a response, she started to leave. But noticing Derek's absence, she paused, a fleeting thought of a dream crossing her mind.

"Wait a moment," Everett's gravelly voice stopped her.

She turned, her expression composed yet curious. Everett produced a document—the share transfer agreement—from a drawer. Holding it out, he said solemnly, "You came to celebrate my birthday, only for chaos to ensue. Consider this compensation."

A ripple of panic swept through the crowd. "What do you think you're doing?" a relative exclaimed. "Handing company shares to an outsider?"

Everett's sharp glare silenced them. "Shut up, all of you!"

Their displeasure was evident, but they remained silent. Vivienne glanced at the document, her lips pressed thin. "I can't accept this," she said quietly. She wouldn't take anything from the Mitchell family—not compensation, nor their lingering ties.

Everett's expression softened. His tone was almost pleading. "If you don't accept it, I won't forgive myself. The Mitchell family owes you, and this chaos… If you refuse, how can I face you?"

Vivienne offered a faint, unconvincing smile. "Everett, I've never sought anything from the Mitchell family—not before, and certainly not now."

Seeing her resolve, Everett ceased his pleas. He hesitated, then softened his tone. "Actually, I'd like you to attend the anniversary celebration next month."

Vivienne paused, understanding dawning. The five percent share transfer's purpose became clear. A mocking smile touched her lips. Nothing was without a price.

"The Mitchell Group has nothing to do with me," she replied coolly, turning and leaving.

As she left, her gaze lingered on the gem Natalie had given Everett, a meaningful smile playing on her lips. Steve noticed, his brow furrowing. "Why is this here?" he muttered.

The room's attention shifted to the gem, curiosity sparking. Was there more to the gift than met the eye? Natalie mistook the interest for admiration. Pride swelled within her, though she remained outwardly composed. "This is a rare gem, once owned by royalty, acquired with great care. Is there an issue?"

Steve absently fiddled with the bracelet. His casual demeanor masked his sharp tone. "Items like these… they're meant to be enjoyed."

The gem's craftsmanship was exceptional, fooling even experts. Only Vivienne's glance had alerted him.

Xavier, sensing tension, spoke cautiously. "Mr. Gilbert, are you implying this gem might not be genuine?"

Steve clasped the bracelet on his wrist and patted Xavier's shoulder. "Let's discuss it another time." His subtle weight of voice silenced Xavier.

Natalie, however, felt her confidence falter. Something was wrong. She hurried after Steve, her tone urgent and defensive. "Mr. Gilbert, this gem came from Timeless Treasures!"