Chapter 259: Diana's Freedom

“You really didn’t have to bring anything,” Melissa gestured subtly to a maid, who moved swiftly to collect the items. She glided over to Natalie, clasping her hand with maternal warmth. “I’ve watched you blossom into the remarkable woman you are today—kind, thoughtful, and considerate. Warren couldn’t ask for a better partner. He’s truly blessed to have you as his future wife.”

A rosy blush crept across Natalie’s cheeks as she smiled demurely. “I just hope you don’t resent me. If it weren’t for my involvement, the Mitchell family wouldn’t be facing this scandal…”

Melissa’s voice turned to ice as she interjected, “You’re not to blame for any of this. That manipulative Vivienne bears full responsibility! She hasn’t just damaged your and Warren’s reputations—she’s brought shame to the entire Mitchell family. She seems to have forgotten who provided her comfortable lifestyle all these years. Now that she’s found wealthy backing, she’s determined to crush us beneath her heel. Mark my words, people like her eventually face divine justice.”

In Melissa’s mind, Vivienne shouldered all blame for the Mitchell family’s current predicament. Yet the family conveniently overlooked their own role—their insatiable greed and Diana’s revenge, leading to their current misfortunes.

Observing Melissa’s venomous attitude toward Vivienne sent a wave of satisfaction coursing through Natalie.

“Please take care of yourself. Don’t let this upset you further.” She guided Melissa to the sofa, accepting a cup of coffee from the maid before offering it to Melissa with a solicitous smile.

Melissa savored a sip, exhaling deeply before turning her attention to Natalie. “What brings you here today, dear?”

“There’s a Forreal auction tomorrow,” Natalie responded with calculated gentleness. “I thought it might lift Diana’s spirits to attend.”

Melissa’s face brightened considerably. “How wonderfully thoughtful of you.”

Since the incident, Diana had been confined to her chambers, her isolation breaking Melissa’s maternal heart. Yet, with both Everett and Warren holding Diana responsible, Melissa remained powerless to intervene. Natalie’s suggestion presented the perfect opportunity for Diana’s reemergence. As anticipated, Warren yielded to Natalie’s proposal, and Everett found himself unable to object.

When Natalie shared news of the charity event, excitement kept Diana awake through the night. After two weeks of confinement, the walls had begun closing in. Finally, she could reclaim her place in society.

Evening descended upon the city, bathing it in artificial radiance at seven o’clock. The convention center, Lyhaton’s architectural crown jewel, stood resplendent beneath the shimmer of countless lights. In the plaza, the fountain performed its eternal dance, its waters twirling like an ethereal ballerina beneath the ever-changing illumination.

A silver Koenigsegg glided into the VIP lane with understated elegance. The driver’s door swung open as a commanding figure emerged, his confident strides carrying him to the passenger side. A delicate hand extended outward, accepting his assistance as a woman gracefully emerged, her movements fluid despite her towering heels. Her white suit epitomized sophistication, emphasizing an innate elegance and composure. Though her companion exuded an overwhelming presence, she matched his energy effortlessly, creating an unexpectedly harmonious pair.

A uniformed middle-aged man approached moments later, addressing her with deference. “Miss Hayes.”