Chapter 173

The Jackmans, unimpressed by the Sullivans’ extravagant display – boasting about Brittany and Gary’s crew – openly sneered. Their disdain was palpable; they clearly considered the Sullivans beneath them, especially Paisley, who wasn't even present. Marianne briefly brightened at the sight of Cary, but the rest of the family remained unimpressed. Keith noticed his son's interest in Brittany, a stark contrast to the ignored Paisley.

The Sullivans' excuse about Brittany having a boyfriend only fueled Keith's anger. His gaze hardened on Gregory. "Gregory," he spat, "What's the deal with Paisley? Does she think so little of my son and us?"

"Exactly!" Marianne snapped. "How dare she disrespect us! Gregory begged for this arrangement, and we're treated like this?"

Baron leered at Brittany. "I've never lacked for women. Who does she think she is?"

Humiliated in front of Brittany's crew, Gregory swallowed his rage. He furiously dialed Paisley's number. That ungrateful girl, he thought, this is deliberate defiance. He fully expected her to ignore him.

To his surprise, she answered. "You ungrateful—" he began, then forced a calmer tone. "Where are you? Why aren't you here?" He felt a flicker of worry; Paisley had always defied him, unlike the obedient Brittany. His past neglect had been intentional, a power play.

Paisley's voice was calm. "Traffic. I'll be there soon."

Gregory's anger choked him. "When you get here, go straight to the private room. Everyone's waiting."

"Okay," she replied, hanging up before he could lecture her. He was furious, yet he couldn't unleash his wrath; the Jackmans' disapproval hung heavy. He had to ensure this blind date succeeded.

He glanced at Baron, a grim determination settling on his face. "Baron, please wait in the next room. My daughter is… nervous. Be understanding, will you?" He forced a smile, desperately trying to paint Paisley in a better light.

Baron raised a skeptical eyebrow. "A shy little flower, huh?"

Gregory gritted his teeth. "Yes, exactly."

Baron’s booming laughter filled the room as he lumbered to his feet, his chair screeching. "I like them pure and innocent. Fine, I’ll take a look." He winked disgustingly at Brittany as he passed.

Brittany felt a wave of nausea, but beneath her revulsion, a cold triumph bloomed. Paisley marrying such a man filled her with glee. Paisley's existence had always cast a shadow; a constant reminder that Brittany, adopted from an orphanage, wasn't the true Sullivan heiress. Paisley’s return had solidified that fact. The word "adopted" was a brand she could never erase, and she hated Paisley for it.

Christina squeezed her hand, offering a reassuring smile. She was relieved it wasn't Brittany facing Baron, and hopeful Brittany would soon marry into the Vanderbilt family. As for Paisley, Christina hoped she’d behave and win Baron over, finally contributing something to the family. Perhaps then, she might truly be acknowledged as a daughter.