Chapter 179

Violet’s words were a thinly veiled jab at Leland’s past, suggesting he was once unworthy to grace these halls. Johanna’s face stiffened upon hearing this. But Violet wasn’t aiming to target Johanna and Leland specifically. She continued with a slow, deliberate smile, “Even though Mr. Dawson is new around here, today gives us a great chance to get to know him. Getting hold of the Majestic Manor Hotel’s banquet hall isn’t something many people can brag about. It really shows off Mr. Dawson’s bright future.” With that, Violet smoothed over the awkwardness of the moment.

Yet, Leland caught the disdain and contempt in Violet’s eyes directed at him. From a distance, Freya observed the exchange. It might look like Leland was sharing a laugh with Violet to an outsider. But Freya knew better. How could a girl like Violet genuinely approve of a troublemaker like Leland? The Ramsey family would never have bothered to attend if it weren’t for Kieran’s status.

“Reya, what are you looking at?” Luna looked at Freya, puzzled. What are Johanna and her son thinking? Freya is here, and they don’t even bother to greet her. Luna was pissed off and thought, then there was Kieran, all cozy with Eloise. The entire gathering was filled with high-society figures, all adept at reading the room. It was clear to them that neither Kieran nor Johanna and her son were giving Freya the time of day. So, no one really tried to chat with Freya. Almost everyone acted like she was just not there.

“Kieran, shall we go offer a toast?” suggested Eloise, picking up a champagne flute. Someone of Kieran’s stature wouldn’t need to lower himself to clink glasses with Leland. Even if Leland was the host, he should extend the courtesy to Kieran. Yet, Kieran’s gaze was still on Freya from afar.

Kieran frowned when he saw Freya was only observing Leland, indifferent to his flirtations with Eloise. He took the champagne from Eloise and, grabbing her wrist, said, “If you insist, let’s go.” Eloise blushed as Kieran took her hand.

“Did you see that? Mr. Sutton and Eloise are holding hands!” “Could this be deliberate? His fiancée is right here!” “What fiancée? Everyone knows Mr. Sutton doesn’t care for Freya. It’s only a matter of time before she’s out. This marriage is doomed!”

Luna had noticed the surrounding whispers. She quickly nudged Freya’s arm, saying, “Hey! They’re talking about you! Did you hear that?” “Hmm?” Freya’s attention hadn’t been on Kieran at all. Because of Luna’s remark, Freya had finally noticed Kieran walking with Eloise toward Johanna and her son.

Luna was steaming mad. “This Kieran, he’s got some nerve! What does he think this event is? Showing off with Eloise! It’s making me furious!” “Let it go, Luna. Who doesn’t know I got close to Kieran by mimicking Eloise? Your anger won’t change anything.” “Reya…” Luna wanted to say more, but Freya interjected, “Look, the real show is about to start.” “What?” Luna was momentarily confused. But then, she saw Kieran and Eloise approaching Leland.

Kieran took the initiative to toast Leland, a move that caught the attention of many, and even the Ramsey family members gave Leland a second look.

Chapter 180