Chapter 163

Nate, Cloud Crest Winery’s Brightmoor division manager, knew the rarity of an intact Cloud Creu Reserve. Annual production was minuscule; wealthy buyers snapped up every bottle. Even he only secured one or two a year. Now, a perfectly good bottle—meant as a crucial gift to secure his job renewal—lay shattered. His performance hadn't been stellar, and his boss's assistant had been noncommittal. This wine was his olive branch. Rage boiled within him.

"If you don't replace this bottle," he roared, his gaze venomous, "I'll make sure you and your daughter are out of Harrowfell!"

Silence. Fear gripped the other parents. Even Kevin, usually kind, shrank back. Nate's power was undeniable. Vivian smirked. "That's the price of seducing another woman's husband," she whispered.

Leo, observing the scene, felt a pang of sympathy for the isolated Paisley and Serena. He considered intervening. Then Paisley spoke, calm and composed: "Such a bold claim. I'd like to see you try."

Some parents urged Paisley to apologize, but Leo admired her defiance, though he doubted its wisdom. He discreetly summoned the restaurant manager.

Later, in a private room: "The host family is relentless. They want the wine, not money. Threats have been made," Leo explained. "Is a bottle of wine really worth this?"

Max simply ordered, "Get someone to deliver a replacement immediately."

Back at the table, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Millie's birthday was ruined. Tears streamed down her face. "I don't want to be your friend anymore!" she yelled at Serena.

Serena panicked. "I'm sorry, Millie. It's my fault. My mom will pay."

The restaurant manager arrived with a technician and a laptop. Vivian felt a prickle of fear.

"Due to noise complaints," the manager announced, "I've reviewed the security footage."

Paisley raised an eyebrow. Vivian’s heart pounded. The video played, slowed down. Serena’s hand brushed the pedestal, but a foot, clearly visible, nudged the base, causing the bottle to fall. The shoe’s logo instantly identified Vivian as the culprit.

All eyes turned to her, frozen in place. The manager concluded, "The truth is clear. Enjoy your meal."

Awkward silence followed. Then Serena’s innocent voice broke through. "Mommy, I didn't break the bottle?"

Paisley nodded. "No, you were wrongly accused."

Serena's next words were direct. "Then shouldn't Vivian and Dad apologize?"