Marina was already on the fence about attending this particular competition, and after being badgered by this couple, she was seething. With fury practically steaming off her, Marina glared at Xavier. "Xavier, come with me. That girl is from a no-name family, and not even a looker—I shudder to think what your kids would look like."
Billy and Lauren were livid.
Marina stood up to leave, and said sharply to Xavier, "If you don't come with me, you can forget being my son. Without the Rowland family's clout, let's see how far you get."
Xavier hesitated, glancing at the big screen displaying Ruby's image, then back at Marina who was resolute in her departure. Without a second thought, he followed in Marina's footsteps. He could let go of Ruby, but not the Rowland family's prestige.
Just as Marina and Xavier reached the door, the announcement of the competition's end echoed through the venue. Xavier caught Marina's arm, pleading earnestly, "Mom, let's just wait a bit longer. If Ruby takes the top spot, partnering with her could be good for the business. Don't you want me to outshine Dorian and bring glory to the Rowland family?"
Marina hesitated, her expression cold, "We'll stay put, but the moment she loses, we leave. Xavier, I'm telling you, if you keep seeing a woman like that, you're no son of mine. I've heard that the Harrisons have found their long-lost daughter, and Lena was a mix-up. Once I confirm it, I’ll set you up with the real Harrison girl. It could be a huge boost for your future."
Xavier's face lit up at her words.
"Really? The Harrisons had a daughter switch at birth? Lena's adopted?"
"My sources are rock-solid," Marina said. "Hattie is said to dote on her biological daughter, especially after an eighteen-year separation. Blood ties mean she'll cherish her even more. If we move fast and win her over, you won't have to worry about lucrative partnerships."
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