Chapter 1122 Friendship That Can't Stand the Test
Today's wedding, although it was only the second wedding of the Green family's head, was more grandiose than many first weddings.
The bride was more than twenty years younger than the groom, a movie queen in the entertainment industry. It was said that she had many tricks up her sleeve and successfully ousted the original wife to marry into the Green family.
Jane had no fondness for such a woman, but the bride's character had little to do with her, so she didn't need to care much.
As soon as the Watkins family's car stopped, it drew a lot of attention.
Although most of the attendees today were either rich or noble, there were very few who could afford this top-of-the-line extended Bentley.
When the car door opened, everyone saw a handsome and devilish Jovan step out, with broad shoulders and long legs, making him particularly eye-catching.
Next, Ainslee got out of the car, her exquisite face drawing even more attention.
"Mr. Watkins..." Someone recognized Jovan and was about to greet him when they saw Mr. Watkins turn and extend his hand into the car.
A fair hand reached out, red high heels touched the ground, and Jane was personally helped out by Jovan. Her stunning features and aloof demeanor brought back memories for many present.
"Jane!"
"So it's Jane and Jovan!"
"There were rumors that Jovan was dying, but now he's standing right here, alive and well."
"Who's the man next to Jovan? I've never seen him before."
"I tried everything to get that dress Jane is wearing today but couldn't. It seems the Watkins family's power hasn't diminished."
"Good thing you didn't get it. If you wore the same dress as Jane today, it would be a disaster."
"True, anyone wearing the same dress as Jane would look pale in comparison."
"I heard that someone from the South City is coming; this should be interesting."
Jovan not only returned safely this time but also in grand style. It was clear to everyone that the Watkins family emerged from bankruptcy not just unscathed, but actually attaining even greater heights
Jovan had always been the core strength of the Watkins family. The attendees, being very shrewd, immediately surrounded him warmly, exchanging respectful pleasantries.
Jane, once another hot figure, was also surrounded by many socialites.
"Jane, long time no see, you're still so beautiful!"
"Jane, that outfit looks amazing on you! I heard you were sick recently. Are you feeling better?"
"Jane, I haven't seen you in years. I missed you so much!"
"Jane, I'm hosting a party next week, can you come? I just bought a photography piece worth millions, and I'd love for you, as a professional, to appreciate it."
A stream of flattery flowed, with words so intimate that one might think they were very close.
It wasn't that Jane didn't attend social gatherings, but after the Watkins family went bankrupt, these socialites automatically excluded her from their circle.
This was typical of the fragile friendships in this circle. Jane had long seen through it and was used to it. She skillfully responded to each one, speaking flawlessly and maintaining her central position.
In no time, Jane seemed to have regained her former status as the top socialite.
Jane's plan today was to attend in style, make a beautiful appearance, and then leave just as beautifully, satisfying the curiosity of those around her and enjoying their praise.
But there were always those who didn't go along with her plans.
"Jane, I heard you were pregnant recently. Where's the baby?" Suddenly, a woman named Lucy Hayes asked, seemingly unintentionally.
The surroundings fell silent for a moment.
"Lucy, you always say what shouldn't be said, don't ask that." Lucy's friend spoke up.
It sounded like she was speaking for Jane, but in reality, she was agreeing with Lucy.
Jane was long tired of such petty tricks.
"Look at my current state. Where do you think the baby is?" Jane asked openly.
The news of Jane's pregnancy and miscarriage had also reached Paykston. These women loved gossip and wouldn't miss any chance to mock Jane, so how could they not know about the miscarriage?
Lucy hadn't expected Jane to respond so unconventionally, and stood there awkwardly, not knowing what to do.
As a normal person, wouldn't one be embarrassed when asked such a question?
Jane wasn't embarrassed at all. As long as she wasn't embarrassed, the awkwardness fell on others. Besides, she hadn't done anything wrong, so why be embarrassed?
"You look quite unfamiliar." Jane sized up Lucy, who was dressed well and looked decent. "Your name is Lucy, right?"
"Lucy Hayes." Lucy was infuriated by Jane's question but had to force a smile.
Lucy had gained quite a reputation in the socialite circle over the past two years. She studied jewelry appraisal and aesthetic appreciation and, leveraging her family's connections, became an editor-in-chief at a fashion magazine. She had always prided herself as one of the fashion trendsetters.
But Jane's arrival stole all her thunder!
When these socialites mentioned fashion trendsetters, everyone would unanimously think of Jane!
Lucy couldn't understand why Jane's influence was still so strong after being away from the circle for three or four years.
"Talking about the baby, I slipped mentioning Ms. Watkins' tough times. I shouldn't have." Lucy tried to regain her footing, her eyes glinting as she asked meaningfully. "But Ms. Watkins, you were pregnant with Mr. Clark's child. What happened when you two broke up recently? Of course, I'm not prying, just reminding Ms. Watkins that Mr. Clark is also on today's guest list."
'Anthony is coming?' Jane was stunned.
In her memory, Anthony had no connection with the Green family.
If she had known Anthony was invited, she would have rather hosted a separate socialite party than attend this event.
"That's right, Mr. Clark is on the guest list."
"But Mr. Clark might not come, Jane, don't worry!"
Jane's thoughts were pulled back by the speakers.
"Whether he comes or not has nothing to do with me. Why bring him up in front of me?" Jane said, glancing at Lucy. "You all chat; I'll head inside first."
Jane didn't want to stay at the entrance any longer; she had a bad feeling, a feeling that she would run into Anthony.
"Who does she think she is? Pregnant out of wedlock, and she's still so proud!" Lucy snorted as she watched Jane leave.
A few people echoed Lucy.
But more people refrained from commenting, some even subtly defending Jane. Jane was a formidable figure, and Jovan was known for doting on his sister. If anyone badmouthed Jane and got on the wrong side of the Watkins family's Jane and Jovan, who would be responsible?
"It's the modern age, so what if she's pregnant out of wedlock? It's not uncommon. Besides, I heard Anthony and his mother spoke up for Jane recently, so it might not be Jane's fault."
"Exactly, and now that Jovan is back, with Natalie and Flora supporting Jane, her status is higher than ever. Many people would love to curry favor with her but can't."
"Great, now my mom will rush me to go on blind dates, afraid all the good men will chase after Jane."
"Who isn't in the same boat? It's my mom's fault for not giving me a face as beautiful as Jane's! That face, even I, as a woman, like it!"
"That's not the point. Anyone wanting to pursue Jane has to get past Jovan first."
"By the way, who was the person who got out of the car with the Watkins siblings? Does anyone know?"
"No idea, but they seem to have a significant status."