Chapter 160

The restroom, a lush garden oasis with the gentle sounds of water and birdsong, offered Paisley a moment’s respite. She still felt out of place in these sophisticated circles, the energy drain of meaningless interactions weighing on her.

Suddenly, a sharply dressed man emerged from the men’s room, phone pressed to his ear. “Don’t be mad, honey. I’ll be home tonight.” His voice, deep and magnetic, held a playful edge. “Just a quick stop at my daughter’s birthday. Promised I’d show up. Back in Brightmoor tonight, I swear.” A pause, then, a low growl, “That…woman…disgusts me. That scar…ugh!” He chuckled. “You’re the cutest, prettiest. Be good, love you!” He hung up.

Paisley recoiled. This wasn’t a loving husband.

He noticed her at the sink. “Hey, you look familiar?” His eyes sparkled.

Repulsed, Paisley quickly washed her hands. Undeterred, he smiled, producing a business card. “My number. Call if you’re interested.”

Tubella, entering the restroom, recognized him instantly: Nate Morgan, Millie’s father. She spun around, hurrying back to Vivian.

“What’s the rush?” Vivian asked, disdain lacing her tone.

Isabella leaned in, whispering, “I saw Mr. Morgan…with Ms. Sutton.”

Vivian’s smile widened. “My husband’s here?”

“Yes,” Isabella emphasized, “and he gave her his business card. Said to call if she was interested.”

Vivian’s face hardened. “Are you lying?”

Isabella flinched. “How can I lie? We know what he’s like, but others don’t.” She glanced meaningfully at Serena, playing with Millie.

“What are you implying?” Vivian’s voice sharpened.

Isabella gestured towards Serena. “Ms. Sutton is young, beautiful, raising a child alone… didn’t you say a woman like that attracts a rich man?”

“Mr. Morgan’s a gentleman! Ms. Sutton must have said something…” Vivian’s voice trailed off, then she abruptly stopped, turning away from the restroom.

“What’s wrong?” Isabella asked, confused. “I’m on your side! A woman who tries to destroy a family deserves a lesson!”

Vivian’s eyes hardened. “A lesson…a big lesson.” Her gaze settled on Serena, playing happily with Millie.

The children were enthralled by a bottle of Cloud Crest Reserve, perched precariously on a display stand. It was Vivian's showy display of wealth, a rare wine even she was hesitant to share freely.

Elara gazed longingly at the bottle. “I wonder what it tastes like?”

Millie chimed in, “My mom says it’s amazing. She brought it out for everyone to try.”

“Millie, your mom is so nice!” Elara exclaimed. “My dad even drank Ms. Sutton’s share!”

Millie turned to Serena. “Serena, why didn’t your mom drink any?”

Serena shrugged. “We have it at home. Ours is prettier, my mom says it’s the best.”

Elara teased, “If it’s so good, why doesn’t your mom share?”

Serena replied, “Next time, I’ll ask her to bring it to your birthday.”

Elara, repeating her mother’s words, said, “But you don’t have a dad, and your family is poor! This wine is super expensive!”

Serena’s eyes welled up. A small, clumsy movement…a crash. The expensive wine bottle shattered on the floor.