CHAPTER 73
A week later, Arianna received an invitation to Justin and Violet's silver wedding anniversary, an event set to be attended by many notable figures from their social circle.
When Rochelle heard about it, she sneered disdainfully. “The Schmidt mother-daughter duo is truly malicious. This is obviously a trap. Ari, are you going?”
Arianna glanced at the invitation in her hand, reading the words ‘silver wedding anniversary.’ Then, she smiled and replied,
“Of course! Why wouldn't I? We're not sure who will end up falling into the trap.”
It was clear that the mother-daughter duo was out to get her, and Arianna knew she couldn't avoid the confrontation. Besides, running away wasn't in her nature.
Instead of letting them scheme in the shadows, Arianna preferred to face them head-on. Once she drew them out, she would crush them.
Rochelle wholeheartedly supported Arianna’s plan. “Alright, go for it. Just remember to be careful. And even if things get tough, you know I’ve got your back!”
Arianna responded by blowing a kiss to Rochelle.
********
In the CEO’s office of the King Group.
Ronald knocked on the door and entered. He placed the documents on the desk first before handing Xander the invitation card.
“Mr. King, Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt are inviting you to their silver wedding anniversary party, and they hope that you can attend.”
Xander didn't even glance up. With a pen in hand, he continued signing the document in front of him.
“If it’s not an important event, don't bother me with it.”
Ronald was quietly taken aback.
It seemed Piper had truly lost Xander’s favor. Previously, he would still attend events when the Schmidts invited him.
Ronald nodded. “Understood, Mr. King. I’ll decline the invitation immediately.”
Suddenly, Xander's phone rang, and he answered the call. Although the content of the conversation was unclear, his expression hardened.
Ronald was about to leave the office when Xander halted him. “Hold on.”
Surprised by the change of direction, Ronald paused and quickly turned back to face Xander.
Xander simply stated, “I’ll be attending the silver wedding anniversary party.”
Ronald found himself puzzled by Xander’s sudden change of heart. He had assumed that Piper had fallen out of Xander’s favor, but one phone call seemed to reverse that notion entirely.
Xander's thought process was indeed difficult to decipher.
Nevertheless, Ronald remained committed to his duties. “Of course, Mr. King. I'll handle the arrangements immediately.”
*****
The extravagant silver wedding anniversary celebration unfolded within the splendidly adorned Schmidt’s estate.
From the moment Violet and Justin exchanged vows, they became a beacon of enduring love in the eyes of many. Their union was often the subject of envy and admiration among onlookers.
Newlyweds eagerly sought out Violet and Justin to serve as witnesses at their own weddings, yearning to emulate the lasting affection and devotion that characterized the Schmidt's relationship over the years.
Violet exuded elegance in her meticulously tailored gown, a unique masterpiece crafted exclusively for her. As she glided through the room, all eyes were drawn to her refined presence.
Piper, resembling a fairy-tale princess, radiated beauty with her hair elegantly styled in a bun, adorned with a delicate golden tiara. Her captivating appearance turned heads wherever she went, capturing the admiration of onlookers.
The mother-daughter duo descended the staircase hand in hand, commanding the attention of the gathered crowd. Whispers of awe and admiration rippled through the room as guests showered them with praise and compliments.
Piper basked in the glow of the compliments, reveling in the affirmation of her impressive family lineage, which bestowed upon her both wealth and confidence. Surrounded by admirers, she found herself in a world where people constantly showered her with praise.
Arianna's circumstances had taken a drastic turn. Once a prominent figure in society, she now found herself in dire financial straits, struggling to keep afloat. Compounding her challenges was her ill-fated marriage to a man who only brought embarrassment. In Piper's eyes, she believed she surpassed Arianna in every aspect.
Furthermore, in the near future, Piper would become Xander's wife and the King family's lady of the house! Once in that position, she would ensure that Arianna bowed before her, licking her feet in submission.
Piper only extended an invitation to Arianna with the explicit intention of showcasing her rapid ascent to the summit, effectively shattering any illusions Arianna may have held onto.
The anticipation of this outcome illuminated Piper's smile, infusing it with even more brightness.
As Piper's gaze swept across the room, her eyes lit up upon spotting Arianna's presence. With a smile, she beckoned to a few of her close friends, and together they made their way towards Arianna.
Arianna found herself surrounded, yet she remained composed, meeting their approach with a calm and indifferent demeanor.
"Arianna, I'm glad you could make it," Piper greeted with a charming smile.
"I was worried you might not come after our little misunderstanding. But seeing you here puts my mind at ease. Mom has arranged for a Michelin-starred chef to prepare the feast tonight. I'm sure it's been a while since you've indulged in such fine cuisine. So, relax and enjoy yourself. Don't hold back!"
Arianna arched an eyebrow in surprise. Piper seemed to have become more smarter.
Without waiting for Arianna's response, Piper's friend interjected.
"Isn't Piper just so generous?" the first socialite remarked.
"Despite the Johnsons' impending financial troubles, she still treats Arianna as an equal. Not only does she not look down on her, but she also extends invitations to her events. It's no wonder Mr. King is smitten with her."
The next socialite nodded in agreement.
"You're absolutely right. However, I can't help but feel concerned. What if someone among the guests harbors ill intentions? After all, Arianna was once Mr. King's fiancée. It would be terribly unfortunate if she were to cause a scene."
The third socialite chimed in, "Piper, a woman with nothing to lose isn't afraid of anything. You should be cautious of certain individuals. They may appear friendly on the surface, but deep down, they're plotting to steal your man!"
Piper playfully shot them a glance. "Now, now, let's not jump to conclusions. Arianna didn't wish for the Johnson family's financial woes. She must be going through a lot. And besides, Xander publicly ended their engagement before. She's truly in a pitiable situation."
Arianna observed the exchange with amusement, harboring no resentment. In fact, she felt inclined to applaud their dramatic performance. Their flair for theatrics would be wasted if they didn't consider forming an opera troupe.
