Heaven or Hell: Loving My Twisted Billionaire novel Chapter 49

Chapter 49

“Oh!” Olivia’s eyes widened with exaggerated surprise. “How sweet that you found someone to take such good care of you. But then, love knows no age difference, right? Her laugh tinkled like breaking glass.

I kept my smile steady. “Edward is my mentor and the man who taught me how to live after losing everything. I’m fortunate to have him in my life.”

Olivia’s smile tightened almost imperceptibly before she gestured for us to follow. She led us through the magnificent home, past glittering chandeliers and priceless art, to a grand ballroom set up for the auction. Rows of elegant chairs faced a raised platform where the auctioneer would stand.

I’ve saved you a special spot,” Olivia said, leading us to the very back corner, where the auctioneer would be barely visible. “I’m so sorry, all the VIP seats are reserved for New York society regulars, you know, people who still have money.” Her false sympathy made my stomach twist.

She turned to Edward with fake concern. “Mr. Edward, please make yourself comfortable. I hope the seating isn’t too cramped for you.”

‘Any seat is fine, thank you for your arrangement,” I replied before Edward could speak, my voice steady despite the humiliation burning in my chest.

As Olivia walked away, two women approached–Emily and Jennifer, former high school classmates who had always viewed me with a mixture of envy and

disdain.

“Hannah Lancaster, Emily drawled, her diamond bracelet catching the light as she waved dismissively. “Still playing the high–and–mighty heiress? Who’s the

old man–your sugar daddy?*

Jennifer snickered as I felt Edward stiffen beside me.

“You’re mistaken,” I said calmly. “Edward was my teacher who took me in when I had nowhere to go.”

“Oh right,” Emily’s smile was razor–sharp. “You’re still teaching those problem children at the special education center, aren’t you? Such noble charity work.”

I forced myself to remain composed. “Every child deserves education and care, regardless of their challenges.”

Jennifer’s gaze swept over my dress. “There’s a donation component tonight, Hannah. Maybe you could spare a thousand or two? Oh wait, I forgot, you’re just

a little teacher now.”

“I’d be happy to donate,” I said, reaching into my small clutch and pulling out three hundred dollars. I handed it to Jennifer with a smile.

She looked at the money as if I’d offered her trash. “This wouldn’t even cover the entrance fee for this auction. Are you joking?”

I met her gaze steadily. “Didn’t you once say ‘charity isn’t about how much you give, it’s about having the heart to give? Or does that only apply to those who can donate large sums?”

Jennifer’s face flushed with anger as Emily stepped forward. “Hannah, you should just leave before you embarrass yourself further. This isn’t a place for you anymore. Your family’s been bankrupt for three years.”

The room fell silent, and I felt dozens of eyes turn toward us. Olivia stood nearby, no longer pretending to be friendly, watching with barely concealed satisfaction. I heard whispers, saw pitying glances and smirks.

I stood there, surrounded by mockery, but just then my phone vibrated in my clutch. I discreetly checked it to find a text notification that $300,000 had been deposited into my account–Victoria’s payment had arrived.

10:24 am

Chapter 49

PPC

Just as the tension became unbearable, a commotion erupted at the entrance to the ballroom. Heads turned, conversations halted, and the crowd parted like

the Red Sea.

A tall, powerfully built man entered the room, his presence commanding attention without effort.

Olivia’s face transformed instantly from smugness to eager delight. She rushed forward, all traces of her previous cruelty vanishing. Mr. Sterling! I had no idea you would grace our little auction with your presence!”

I froze, my heart suddenly pounding in my chest.