His Belated Love for the Abandoned Ex Wife novel Chapter 360

His Belated Love for the Abandoned Ex–Wife

Chapter 360 The Welcome Dinner

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“You all set, Iris?” Brandon gave a light tap on the door, unable to keep the happiness out of his

voice.

Iris took a deep breath, turned, and opened the door.

Brandon’s eyes brightened instantly. “No wonder you’re my sister–grace, poise, you’ve got it all. You look absolutely stunning.”

“Don’t tease me, Brandon,” Iris said, her cheeks flushing slightly. She twisted her fingers together nervously. “I’m actually pretty nervous.”

Gently, Brandon took her hand. “Nothing to worry about. Today’s your day–the whole Whitmore family’s behind you.”

Noise from downstairs drifted upward. Looking down from the second–floor hallway, Iris could see the great hall was packed–guests dressed in elegant evening wear, champagne glasses in hand.

Cayden was mingling with attendees, glancing toward the staircase every so often, his expression hopeful.

“Come on,” Brandon said, offering his arm. “Dad’s dying to introduce you.”

When Iris appeared at the top of the stairs, the buzz in the hall gradually quieted.

All eyes turned toward the striking young woman.

Cayden quickly made his way over, tears glistening in his eyes, and announced to the crowd, “Family and friends–today is the happiest day of my life! My daughter, who I lost touch with thirty years ago, is finally home.” His voice wavered with emotion as he clasped Iris‘ hand. “This is Iris. She’s a pharmaceutical research scientist–Science Award winner, holder of three patents. My pride and joy.”

Applause broke out warmly across the room, accompanied by the soft flashes of phone

cameras.

Across the crowd, Iris caught Julian’s gaze–warm, steady, and full of quiet pride.

Nearby stood Frederick, beaming beside his son, nodding to those around him as if to say, “That’s my future daughter–in–law.”

“Iris,” Cayden said softly, “first, we pay our respects.”

He led her out of the main hall toward the family’s private memorial room, followed by the

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Chapter 360 The Welcome Dinner

rest of the Whitmores.

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Inside, the air was still and quiet. Portraits and plaques honoring generations of Whitmores lined the walls.

Following her father’s guidance, Iris lit a candle and bowed her head respectfully. Cayden stood beside her, a tear tracing silently down his cheek.

“Dad…” After a moment, Iris rose and gently wiped his tear away.

Cayden patted her hand. “Your mother would be so proud.”

Next came the formal introductions to the family elders–a tradition observed with care and respect, dignified yet deeply personal.

Once the family ceremony concluded, the reception truly began. Guests approached one after another to offer congratulations.

Iris was quietly surprised to recognize many faces–prominent figures from politics, business, and philanthropy, people she’d only ever seen in headlines or at charity galas.

Yet she carried herself with a calm elegance, every gesture reflecting a natural poise. No one would have guessed this was her first major society event.

Just then, a sharp, jealous voice cut through the chatter behind her.

“I thought Brandon was just being charitable–calling you his ‘honorary sister‘ to make you good. I didn’t realize you were actually Cayden’s daughter.”

Iris turned.

look

There stood Lily, draped in an expensive designer gown, her makeup heavy and deliberately attention–grabbing.

Beside her was Arthur, polished in a tailored suit and leather shoes. Behind his gold–rimmed glasses, his gaze was cold and calculating. He looked Iris over with a hint of regret—as if thinking how differently he might have acted had he known her true standing sooner.

Iris offered a thin, polite smile and made to step away.

Lily moved smoothly into her path.

Cayden and Brandon were busy across the room, and with hundreds of guests filling the space, Iris couldn’t immediately spot Julian.

“What do you want?” Iris asked, her tone cooling.

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Chapter 360 The Welcome Dinner

គ 63

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