Belle chuckled softly, her face filled with disdain for Chlor. "The Rivas Corporation dominates Kerdonia. Of course, they wield great influence."
"But soon," she continued, "I, Belle Cotton, will enjoy the same level of influence and surpass it. There's no need for envy." With the backing of her husband, Charles, it was only a matter of time before she surpassed the Rivas Corporation.
Although Belle claimed she wasn't envious of the Rivas Corporation, her reaction betrayed her true feelings. She gaped in awe at the antiques—items she had only seen in pictures.
Despite this envy, Belle was confident in her abilities. After all, she hadn't encountered any setbacks in her business journey. Little did she know that her success was entirely due to Kyle, the man she despised.
Chloe nodded. "True. Belle, I trust you. In just a few years, you've achieved so much from scratch! You're a business miracle, founding a large conglomerate like Life Pharma! I have full trust in you. You will surpass the Rivas Corporation. That day will come soon!"
Belle tried to suppress a smug smile. She lifted her chin proudly, unfazed by the praise. Building a business from scratch? Running it smoothly? She'd forgotten her initial losses and crippling debt. It was all thanks to Kyle that her business was revived.
The "business miracle" others lauded was entirely due to Kyle's help. Yet, Belle lacked self-awareness. She believed she'd created this miracle single-handedly, while simultaneously abandoning and belittling Kyle, her greatest benefactor.
"Belle, let's go in. There's a crowd; they seem to be welcoming you."
People had gathered at the entrance, raising their champagne glasses and beaming at Belle. She nodded. "These are influential and prominent figures in Kerdonia. I'm used to them greeting me first—it's nothing surprising. Most are just old lechers looking to take advantage of me."
Despite her words, Belle maintained a polite smile, engaging in pleasant conversation with the wealthy businessmen. The scene might have been mistaken for Belle's personal event.
Just then, Kyle escorted Faith into the venue. He wore a simple outfit, unremarkable. However, Faith immediately captivated everyone's attention. Her delicate figure was perfectly complemented by a simple, elegant gown and the Snow White Love jewelry set; she radiated ethereal beauty, like a pure flower.
Belle and Chloe turned, their eyes filled with conflicted emotions.
"Belle," Chloe stammered, "Is is that Faith? And the man with her is that Kyle?"
They weren't seated at the main table, but their placement at the front was a testament to Belle's influence.
When Belle sat down, all eyes were on her. Many approached to converse. Even married men stole glances. Belle's vanity soared; she felt like the undisputed queen. Yet, in an instant, all attention shifted.
Belle's mood plummeted. Seeing Kyle and Faith steal her thunder, especially Faith holding Kyle's arm, ignited her fury. They looked like a newlywed couple, attracting everyone's attention.
Belle's expression darkened; she nearly lost her composure. One thing puzzled her: wasn't Faith hospitalized after a severe beating? How was she perfectly fine, openly appearing with Kyle?