His Secret Heir His Deepest Regret novel Chapter 42

Chapter 42: Say It 

JULIA 

Heather really must have invited the entire city. 

I tightened my grip on the clutch in my hand, glancing over the group of people spilling across the mansion’s sprawling garden. 

It was amazing that someone knew so many people. I didn even have these many friends on my social media! 

However, what was more amazing was the space. The place should have been cramped, but the Astor’s estate was designed to fit crowds that could fill a stadium. 

Instead of chaos, the scene looked like a magazine spread. Fairy lights were strung between towering oaks, champagne flutes glinting in the golden light, and impeccably dressed guests mingling like they owned the world. 

Their laughter was also a familiar tune. It was the sound of rich people laughing the borderline fake one that you hear in casinos, golf courses, or yachts. 

“Woah, is this Heather’s house?” Gianna whispered beside me, her jaw practically on the floor. 

I shook my head, still amazed at the scene before me. “No, it’s the Astors.” 

“The Astors?” Her voice shot up, drawing a few curious looks. 

She turned to me, her brows furrowing “Wait, how do you know that?” 

I chuckled, hiding my nervousness. 

“Let’s sit,” I said instead, gesturing to a small seating area tucked near the edge of the garden. 

I could feel her eyes on me as we made our way through the crowd, but she didn’t press further. Not yet, anyway. 

Whispers followed us like shadows, growing louder the farther we walked. 

“They’re staring at us,” I muttered to Gianna. 

Gianna chuckled and shook her head. “Us?” she asked. “Darling, they’re staring at you.” 

I smiled, not believing her words. “Why would they be staring at me?” 

However, as we walked through the crowd, I was afraid Giana might have been right. 

“Who is she?” 

“Isn’t she pretty?” 

“She looks familiar, doesn’t she?” 

“Yeah, she looks like my future wife.” 

“Who do you think did her makeup? It’s flawless.” 

What family do you think she came from 

“That dress–do you think it’s designer?” 

I swallowed hard and tugged at the hem of my dress. 

Sarah had told me it was thrifted with some alterations. Yet these people were mistaking it for a designer brand? 

#25 BONUS 

Chapter 42: Say it 

Sarah must be a genius. 

The moment we sat down, though, an entirely different problem emerged. 

“Be right back,” I muttered to Gianna, rising before she could ask any more questions. 

I moved through the crowd, catching the eye of a young waiter. He looked at me like he’d just seen a ghost, his mouth opening and closing like he couldn’t remember how to speak. 

“Restroom?” I asked, cutting through his awkwardness. 

“Inside, ma’am. The first room on the left hallway,” he managed, pointing toward the towering mansion. 

“Thanks,” I said quickly, ducking my head and heading inside. 

I merely asked to confirm the information. Of course, I knew where the restroom was. I just didn’t know if they had renovated the place or not. 

The noise of the party faded as soon as I crossed the threshold, replaced by soft classical music. 

‘The Astors‘ wealth was overwhelming up close. The floors gleamed like they were polished every hour, and the walls were lined with artwork that probably cost more than most houses. 

I was halfway down the hall when I saw him. 

Evan. 

He was walking down the stairs, his fingers pressed to his temple, and his eyes closed like the world was too loud for him. For a moment, I thought I could turn around unnoticed, but then his eyes snapped open and locked on mine. 

I froze. 

1000 

“I was just looking for the restroom,” I said quickly, hoping my voice sounded steadier than I felt. 

His frown deepened, and he straightened, his posture rigid. He was silent for a few moments, his eyes just on me.” He looked me up and down, and I felt naked under his gaze. I had the urge to cover my body with my arms, but I kept my back straight. 

His eyes darkened just for a moment before he closed them, his eyebrows furrowing. Then, he finally spoke. 

“Why are you here?” he asked. 

“Umm,” I started off. “Heather invited me.” 

He pursed his lips. “What is Heather thinking?” he muttered. 

Then, his gaze snapped to my face once more. He stepped closer. His dark eyes–searched mine, and I forced myself not to look away. 

“And you accepted the invitation?” he asked. 

I nodded, not saying a word. 

He clicked his tongue. 

“You shouldn’t be here,” he said, his voice low and cold. 

“Why? Because you’re afraid of what might happen if I am?” My words came out sharper than I intended, but I didn’t regret them. 

+25 BONUS 

Chapter 42 Say I