Chapter 233

Christina’s fear of Lauren’s rejection vanished. Instead, she found herself swept into the main hall, flanked by two of the circle's most influential women. Lauren and Diana both vied for her attention, vying for her to sit beside them. The attention was intoxicating; she hadn't felt so valued in ages. Choosing to sit next to Diana—a safer bet given her complicated relationship with Paisley and Lauren's current favoritism—Christina felt a surge of strategic satisfaction. This was about securing Brittany's future, independent of Gregory and Paisley. She'd build Brittany a network strong enough to render Gregory's groveling irrelevant.

What she missed was Julia's darkening glare from across the room, a silent protest against Christina's sudden elevation. Then Christina spotted Donna, the woman who’d once championed her, now ghosting her online.

"Donna! Long time no see," Christina chirped, a smug edge to her voice.

Donna offered a tight smile. "Yes, long time."

"Why can't I see your posts anymore?" Christina pressed.

Before Donna could answer, another woman chimed in, "I see them fine."

An awkward silence descended. The oblivious woman, realizing her mistake, silently sipped her coffee. Donna, inwardly cursing Christina, resolved to have her husband break their contract with the Sullivans, penalty be damned. Christina, oblivious to the brewing storm, beamed, her focus firmly on her goal. She beckoned Brittany over.

"This is my daughter, Brittany," Christina said warmly. "Brittany, say hello."

Brittany, despite her D-list status, held her composure. Tall and elegant, she offered a serene smile. "Good afternoon, ladies. Hello, Lauren. Hello, Diana."

Diana smiled back, her amusement hidden. This wasn't about Christina's family; it was about Paisley, and securing Nathaniel's future. His recent behavior—a whirlwind of scandals—was finally serious. Nathaniel’s insistence on opening a polo club, despite Byron's initial rejection and Dominick’s subsequent intervention, spoke volumes. He was serious about Paisley. And Diana would help him get her. Paisley was remarkable, past indiscretions notwithstanding.

Diana nodded approvingly at Brittany. "You and Serena are beautiful."

"Thank you, Mrs. Beaumont," Brittany replied, thrilled.

"Diana," Diana corrected.

"Diana," Brittany echoed, overwhelmed.

Lauren, not to be outdone, added, "And you can call me Lauren."

"Lauren," Brittany whispered, tears welling. She was close to calling this woman mother-in-law. A thought that made her envy Julia’s position—favored, surrounded, envied. It was all Paisley's fault. Paisley, with her perfect husband and mother-in-law, yet so ungrateful.

Lauren, mistaking Brittany’s tears for nerves, spoke kindly. "Don't be nervous. It's just a casual gathering. See those girls over there?" she gestured to a group of young women. "Plenty of your age."

"I'm an actress," Brittany said, brightening at the mention of her career. The hope of finding an investor flickered in her eyes.

A faint, mocking laugh cut through the air. Everyone heard it.