The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me novel Chapter 581

Victor swept his unconscious wife into his arms. He looked at Riley, his expression heavy with grim apology. "I am deeply sorry for this. My wife has never recovered from losing our eldest child. I apologize for her terrifying you."

Riley shook her head vehemently. "It's fine. Please, get her home to rest immediately."

He gave a curt nod and headed for the door. Noticing Winona trailing behind him like a pale ghost, he stopped. "Winona, it's alright. She's just exhausted. I need you to stay and host the gala; we can't abandon hundreds of guests. I'll take her home."

Winona burst into tears, but she knew her father was right. As the guest of honor, she couldn't let the Spencer family lose face by fleeing the event. She had to step up and handle the room.

Biting her lip, she wiped her eyes furiously and nodded. "Okay."

Victor hated leaving his traumatized daughter alone to manage the ballroom. He looked over at Riley, clearly hesitating.

Riley instantly stepped forward and grabbed Winona's freezing hands, looking at Victor with rock-solid conviction. "Don't worry, Mr. Spencer. I won't leave her side for a second."

Seeing her fearless composure in a crisis, Victor's eyes flashed with deep admiration. "Thank you," he said gratefully, before rushing out into the hallway.

The moment her parents were gone, Winona broke down entirely. "This is all my fault! I'm so incredibly stupid! If I hadn't said the word 'orphan,' none of this would have happened!"

Riley gently wiped the tears from her friend's cheeks, her voice soothing. "It isn't your fault. She's just battling an incredibly deep wound. She's going to be fine. Today is your birthday. Your parents threw this massive party to celebrate you. If you break down crying, it'll completely break their hearts."

Sniffling loudly, Winona forced down her panic and nodded obediently. "You're right. No more crying. I have to smile."