Chapter 114

Steve abruptly halted, his gaze sharp and intense as it fixed on Natalie. “Do you think Timeless Treasures is some ordinary establishment?”

The cold, penetrating glare felt like a blade at her throat, stealing her breath. Her pupils trembled as she met his unwavering stare. Steve’s lips curved into a faint, humorless smile. “I’ve already spared you from public disgrace, Miss Natalie. Don’t make me regret it.”

As he walked away, Natalie remained frozen, the weight of his words settling heavily. Only after he disappeared did the full impact of the day’s events crash down upon her.

Everything had spiraled wildly out of control, far beyond her expectations. She’d assumed the extravagant gem she’d painstakingly obtained for Everett would eclipse everyone, especially Vivienne. Fate, however, had other plans. Vivienne’s antique pen holder proved genuine, revealing her ownership of Timeless Treasures. Natalie’s meticulously chosen gift was a counterfeit. The stark contrast plunged her from a self-constructed pedestal into humiliating depths.

And it was all because of Vivienne! Every attempt to belittle Vivienne resulted in Natalie's own humiliation. Her career had suffered, and now her reputation lay in ruins. Vivienne was undeniably her nemesis.

Natalie’s eyes followed Vivienne’s retreating figure, resentment burning. Unable to contain it any longer, she stormed after her.

Meanwhile, after the guests departed, the Mitchell family clustered around Everett. “Everett, even if we angered Vivienne today, did you really have to give her the company shares?”

Everett’s cold snort and sharp gaze silenced the room. “If I don’t give her the shares, should I watch her dismantle Mitchell Group?” His voice dripped with disdain. “Vivienne is intent on severing ties with this family. When she seeks retribution, what makes you think she’ll hesitate? Your petty schemes to undermine her? Or Warren’s betrayal?”

Harrison, Warren’s father, furrowed his brow, speaking cautiously. “Are you worried that Vivienne will retaliate if Warren and Natalie become engaged?”

“Vivienne and Warren were together for three years, only to be abandoned at the altar. That alone paints Warren as unfaithful. If news of his engagement to Natalie emerges during the anniversary celebration, do you think Mitchell Group’s reputation will survive?” Everett’s gaze was probing and intense.

Harrison’s expression darkened, his confidence faltering under Everett’s scrutiny.

Everett’s voice held an undeniable finality. “Warren’s marriage is his affair, but I have one condition—it must not involve the company in scandal.”

“Understood,” Harrison replied, his tone heavy with resignation. He knew the fragility of Mitchell Group’s position; any misstep could trigger irreparable chaos.

As Everett reached the door, he paused, turning back to Harrison. “Diana is reckless. Confine her to her room for reflection.”

Harrison, not daring to argue, quickly nodded. “Of course, Dad.”

Once Everett left, the other Mitchell family members swarmed Harrison, their voices buzzing with barely contained indignation. “Harrison, what’s going on? Didn’t you say Vivienne was an unsophisticated country girl?”

“Exactly! You painted her as uncultured, but her behavior today was impeccable.”

“The real question is, how did she become the owner of Timeless Treasures?”

“Timeless Treasures! Its value is astronomical!”

A murmur of regret swept through the room, growing louder. Had they known Vivienne’s wealth and power, they wouldn't have let Warren dismiss her so easily. They should have demanded compensation for the years she’d benefited the Mitchell family.