Chapter 129: Anniversary Event

At the anniversary event, Nathaniel watched his mother offer him glass after glass of wine. His gaze occasionally drifted toward Stella. He understood her intentions.

"I have work tonight. I can't drink anymore," Nathaniel gently refused another glass.

Noticing his slight intoxication, Elena glanced at Stella. Instantly, Stella moved to Nathaniel's side, offering support. "Nathaniel, you've been drinking. Let me take you home." She was determined to ensure something happened between them that night.

Nathaniel, still conscious, was about to pull away when his gaze fell upon a woman in the distance. She wore a stunning turquoise gown, her beauty captivating and enchanting. He didn't push Stella away; instead, he stared at Cecilia.

Cecilia's arrival immediately drew attention. Her extraordinary beauty caused many to fail to recognize the former hearing-impaired Miss Smith. Elena, too, was astonished. In the past, Cecilia had been beautiful but understated. Now, she seemed a completely different person.

Under the scrutiny of the guests, Cecilia approached Nathaniel and Stella. "Ms. Ross, I've come to take Nathaniel home," she announced.

All eyes turned to her. Whispers filled the air: "Isn't that Cecilia, Mr. Rainsworth's wife?" "Is that really Cecilia? She's gorgeous!" "She was always beautiful, but rarely made public appearances." "She's even more stunning than Stella! Does this make Stella a mistress?"

Stella, overhearing the gossip, blushed with embarrassment. Nathaniel freed himself from Stella's grasp and turned to Cecilia. "Why did you come?"

Cecilia, assessing him, realized the drug hadn't yet taken effect. "I noticed you'd been drinking. I was worried you might get drunk, so I came."

Their conversation further upset Stella. Did Cecilia arrive early?

Nathaniel grinned. "You go ahead. I'll catch up."

"All right." Cecilia left.

As she reached the doorway, a stern-looking man in a suit approached. Surprise flickered in his deep eyes.

"Cecilia?" he called hesitantly.

Cecilia stopped, turning to face him. His striking features were unforgettable. She recognized him: Darren Faust, Nathaniel's friend, the only one who hadn't mistreated her after her marriage, though he'd never offered assistance either.

"You've mistaken me," Cecilia said, avoiding him. She quickly passed by.

Darren watched her leave, his expression unreadable.

Back at the party, Nathaniel felt a change in his body and realized the wine was drugged. He glowered at Stella. "Regardless of what my mother said, I don't want this to happen again."

Stella was stunned. "Nathaniel, don't be angry. Mother just really wants a grandchild."

"Will you die if she asks you to?" Nathaniel interrupted.

Stella's throat tightened.

As Nathaniel prepared to leave, she clung to his clothes. "Nathaniel, I truly love you. I'll do anything for you. Cecilia is different. She was spoiled and doesn't understand love. I've saved myself for you."