Chapter 148: I’ll Drink on Her Behalf
“Ms. Lewis!”
The sudden call shattered the quiet stillness of the moment. Chloe lifted her gaze and saw Anthony striding toward her, a forced smile plastered on his face.
Instantly, her features hardened into a guarded mask, betraying no hint of warmth or recognition.
Eugene caught sight of Anthony’s approach as well but maintained his calm demeanor, offering only a brief, measured glance. Anthony, however, wasted no time. In his hand, he held a wine glass, a clear sign of his intent.
“Ms. Lewis, I didn’t expect to run into you here again,” he began, his voice steady but with an edge of contrition. “I want to properly apologize for how I acted earlier.” He glanced down at the empty glasses on their table, then reached for one.
“Please, allow me to propose a toast. I hope you’ll accept my apology.” His tone softened, almost pleading. “Mr. Slade already gave me a stern talking-to. I know I was out of line, and I’m truly sorry.”
Chloe studied Anthony’s face carefully. For a fleeting moment, it almost seemed as if this spoiled heir had genuinely recognized his wrongdoing.
But deep down, Chloe remained doubtful.
She was merely curious to uncover what game Anthony was playing this time.
Without moving to take the glass, she simply observed him, her expression unreadable and cool.
Noticing her hesitation, Anthony’s smile grew even more earnest. “Sorry for being so abrupt earlier. Ms. Lewis, I genuinely want to make things right between us. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me. This cocktail was specially crafted by the bartender at Mistveil Manor—I requested it just for you.”
He lifted his own glass, pausing for a moment. “This is my way of showing you how sincere I truly am.” Slowly, he poured half of his drink into the empty glass and took a deliberate sip from his own portion right in front of her.
Then, extending the glass toward Chloe, he urged, “Ms. Lewis, please.”
At that moment, Joseph returned carrying a bottle of wine, caught sight of Anthony, and snapped sharply, “What are you doing here again?”
“Mr. Slade, I came specifically to apologize to Ms. Lewis,” Anthony replied, bowing his head respectfully. “I’ve realized my mistakes. I’m truly sorry.”
“Ms. Lewis, I’m deeply sorry,” he added, his voice softer now.
Joseph narrowed his eyes as he appraised Anthony’s unusually serious demeanor.
Since when had this troublemaker suddenly turned so sincere?
“Mr. Slade, I’ve really come to understand,” Anthony continued, offering an awkward smile. “I’ve been searching for the right moment to apologize to Ms. Lewis. Earlier at the event, all I could think about was finding something she might appreciate to accompany my apology. But I’m young and impulsive—I don’t always know my limits!”
“Ms. Lewis, I mean every word. I’m truly sorry. Please accept this toast, and I hope you won’t hold my foolishness against me.”
Before she could react, the cocktail was in Eugene’s grasp.
Chloe’s eyes widened in surprise. Anthony stared at Eugene, clearly confused.
“I’ll drink on her behalf,” Eugene said simply. He shot a sharp glance at Anthony before downing the cocktail himself.
Anthony’s fingers tightened involuntarily around his glass as he watched Eugene empty the drink. Then, a faint, almost reluctant smile crept across his lips.
Joseph noticed Eugene’s action and tried to lighten the mood. “Mr. Rosewood, consider that a preliminary taste. Look, I’ve prepared something special…”
Before he could finish, staff arrived carrying freshly opened bottles.
Joseph’s wine collection was legendary—the vintages needed no introduction.
“It seems Mr. Slade has brought out his treasures. Tonight just got a lot more worthwhile,” Selina remarked as she returned, linking arms with Landon, her eyes flickering with interest at the scene unfolding before them.
Landon and Selina took their seats directly across from Chloe and Eugene.
Joseph approached personally, selecting a glass and beginning to pour wine for everyone.

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