My Husband's Affair My Anniversary Gift (Lily and David) novel Chapter 22

Lily turned her head slightly, almost against her will, and her eyes met David’s. For a fraction of a second, the world seemed to narrow down to just that locked stare. His expression was unreadable too composed, too still—but the subtle tightening around his eyes betrayed something more dangerous.

And then, without warning, Lily broke the connection. Her chin dipped, and she turned her head away, as if the sight of him was nothing more than a passing blur in a room full of strangers.

It was deliberate.

David’s hand clenched at his side, fingers curling into a tight fist. His jaw locked, the muscles twitching once before stilling. The air between them seemed to thicken, charged with an unspoken challenge.

How dare she?

The Lily he knew would never have looked at him that way. She would have at least acknowledged him, whether in anger or in sarcasm, but never with this… absence. It was as if she had erased him entirely from her world.

And that cut deeper than any sharp retort could.

Marina, oblivious to the silent war raging between them, had already spotted her next move. Claire was standing nearby in a breathtaking silver gown that glimmered with every step. She was surrounded by a small circle of high-profile guests, all hanging on to her every word.

“Ms. Bennett" Marina’s voice, sugary sweet and brimming with calculated warmth, broke through the chatter as she glided toward the group.

Lily didn’t move. She stayed where she was, pretending to not know Marina and David.

Marina stepped into Claire’s personal space with the confidence of someone who believed charm alone could open any door. she gushed, her painted lips curling into a practiced smile. “I’ve heard so much about your latest line it’s simply exquisite. I was hoping we might speak about… possible collaborations?”

Claire’s smile didn’t falter, but her tone carried a chill. “I see. And what sort of collaboration were you thinking of, Ms. Laurent?”

“Oh, nothing too complicated,” Marina replied smoothly, her voice carrying just enough to be overheard by David. “I’m launching a new collection myself. I think pairing it with your brand’s prestige could be mutually beneficial. I do believe I’d make an excellent ambassador for your next campaign.”

Claire’s polite expression didn’t shift, but her eyes flickered briefly cool appraisal with the faintest edge of amusement. “Ambassador, hmm?” she murmured.

David, watching from a short distance, decided to intervene. His steps were unhurried but purposeful, cutting through the crowd like a shadow that refused to be ignored. When he reached Marina’s side, his hand brushed lightly at her elbow a subtle but possessive gesture.

“Ms. Bennett ” he greeted, his deep voice smooth yet tinged with authority. “It’s been too long.”

“Mr. Hardison.” Claire’s reply was calm, but there was no mistaking the note of curiosity in it.

“I hear my… dear friend Marina here is interested in working with you,” David continued, casting a pointed glance at Marina. “I’d personally vouch for her. In fact, if she were to become the face of your next campaign, I’d be willing to invest an additional five million dollars into your brand.”

Around them, several nearby guests exchanged discreet looks. Five million was not a casual number to throw into a conversation.

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