Chapter 17
Meanwhile, over at the Smith Manor, Michael was staring daggers at the trending news on his screen, his brows knitted tight.
David, standing nervously beside him, blurted out, "Mr. Smith, it wasn't me. Someone must've spread it on purpose. Want me to squash the news?"
"No need," Michael said, his lips pressed into a thin line, something unreadable flickering in his eyes. "It's gotta be someone from the Brown Family."
David quickly pieced it together. The Browns had leaked the video to mess with Rachel. If Michael tried to suppress it, he'd risk ticking off his future in-laws. And that was a no-go for him.
"So, what do we do?" David asked.
"Ignore it," Michael said, turning off his phone and shifting his focus. "Did the Azure Heart arrive?"
David nodded. "Yeah, it got here yesterday. Just like you asked, Miss Brown's name is engraved on it."
"Good, you can go," Michael said, rubbing his temples. His eyes drifted to the divorce certificate in the trash, making his head throb even more.
TriStar Corporation had a solid rep in the Summit Ridge District. The Brown Family had invited a bunch of high-society folks to their daughter's banquet, naturally drawing in those eager to meet her.
Ethan, a refined middle-aged man with a distinguished beard, and his elegant wife, Charlotte Lewis, who oozed timeless grace, mingled with their guests, their smiles never faltering.
Soft piano music filled the air, drawing everyone's attention to Mandy. Seated gracefully at the grand piano in a stunning green gown, she exuded a charm and elegance that captivated the audience.
After the performance, Michael walked over from the crowd and took Mandy's hand. They looked like the perfect couple.
Ethan smiled. "Thank you all for coming to our family's banquet. Today, besides celebrating Mandy's recovery, we have another big announcement."
He glanced around the room, finally resting his gaze on Michael. "I announce that Michael, the president of the Smith Group, will be my son-in-law."
The crowd buzzed with chatter. Everyone knew about Michael's recent divorce, and now he was becoming the Brown Family's son-in-law. With the trending video from yesterday, people couldn't help but think about the importance of social status.
Michael, looking dashing and distinguished, was perfectly matched with the gentle and beautiful Mandy. He took out a golden box, opened it, and knelt on one knee in front of her. The proposal was clear.
Mandy's face lit up with surprise, her hands covering her mouth in disbelief.
Just then, a laugh echoed through the room. "Sorry, everyone, I'm late."
All eyes turned to the voice—Rachel. Michael's expression darkened with complicated emotions as he looked at her. Rachel, dressed in a seductive yet sophisticated outfit, moved gracefully into the room with John and Robert flanking her sides.
Guests gasped. Everyone knew she was Michael's ex-wife. What was she doing here now?
Seeing Michael's proposal interrupted, Emily pointed angrily at Rachel. "Who let you in? Get out!"
John stood with arms crossed, a smirk on his face. "We're here to attend Miss Brown's banquet."
Emily sputtered in indignation, but Ethan, ever the composed host, stopped her. His smile, though forced, tried to keep things civil. "Even though I didn't send you an invite, guests are always welcome. The Brown Family welcomes you."
Charlotte, though, wasn't as composed. With a glare, she addressed Rachel brusquely. "Is she the one who caused my daughter's car accident?"
Recognition flashed across Charlotte's face, her eyes narrowing. "Miss Williams, I haven't sought retribution for what you did to my daughter six years ago, and yet you dare show up here?"
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