Chapter 400
"Let's take our seats," Joseph suggested in a tranquil tone, extending a chair for her with gentlemanly grace.
The table before them was adorned with a variety of fruits and pastries, a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate.
Cassie attempted to peel a handful of pine nuts, but the task proved too laborious, and she abandoned her efforts. Observing her struggle, Joseph took it upon himself to peel some for her, placing them within her reach. His considerate act warmed the corners of Cassie's heart.
"Cassie..."
A tender voice echoed in her ear, causing her to lift her gaze. David stood before her, impeccably dressed in a navy suit paired with pristine white trousers. His handsome countenance was undeniable, his eyes shimmering with a blend of shock and anguish as they locked onto her.
He edged closer, his hand instinctively reaching towards her face, only to be intercepted mid-air by another. Joseph drew Cassie closer to him, an eyebrow arching in challenge. "Really? Making advances on my wife in front of everyone, that's hardly appropriate."
"Joseph, you've changed, but soon, I'll reclaim Cassie. You're not worthy of her," David retorted, his tone softening as he addressed Cassie, "Just wait a bit longer for me."
"David, what brings you here today?" Cassie, weary of their squabble, steered the conversation in a different direction.
"I've been working on a collaboration with Stark recently."
David's words were barely out of his mouth when Felix's secretary approached, brimming with enthusiasm. "Mr. Foster, your seat is at the front. These seats are reserved for less distinguished guests."
"Really? But we're talking about Joseph here..." David had harbored a grudge against Joseph for quite some time, and he seized this opportunity to take a swipe.
"Joseph? He's hardly fit to lace our Joseph's boots," the secretary scoffed dismissively, guiding David towards the front.
"Cassie, would you like to accompany me?" David extended his hand towards her, causing a stir among the onlookers.
A woman, whose beauty had been marred, being pursued by two attractive men was a spectacle that incited envy in others.
Yet, Cassie was overwhelmed with discomfort.
"David, how many times must I remind you, she's my wife," Joseph interjected, his handsome features hardening, a warning lurking in his voice.
"You want her to sit with you at the back?" David retorted, his eyes gleaming with derision. "This is where the least important people at the engagement party sit—some even bought their way in with money and gifts."
His words were blunt, and the other guests at the table fell silent, having indeed made considerable efforts to attend and offer their congratulations to the Chapman family, hoping to mingle with the elite. Merely having a seat was a privilege.
Joseph chuckled, "David, are you still holding a grudge about how I embarrassed you at Chapman's birthday party? Seeking revenge now?"
David remained silent, but the satisfaction he felt in this moment was known only to him.
Joseph smirked, "You usually present yourself with polished manners and humility; it appears it was all a façade. Look at you now, kicking a man when he's down. It's quite unbecoming."
Cassie was taken aback.
She could comprehend David's animosity towards Joseph, but with Joseph's revelation...
Indeed, David's behavior today was a stark contrast to his usual demeanor.
It even brought to mind the past antics of the Whitmores.
Joseph turned to her, his touch gentle as he caressed her head, "Darling, some men are adept at concealing their true nature. Look at me, at least my flaws are out in the open, unlike some who masquerade as gentlemen but are far from it."
"Joseph, enough. You stole my fiancée, do you think I can remain composed?" David's expression darkened. "Cassie, come with me. I'll protect you; I have the means now."
"...I'm sorry, David. I'll stay here."
Cassie cast him an apologetic glance, "Please, go ahead. I'm not worthy of you."