Three days later, one of the grandest celebrations in the city was held.
It was the birthday banquet of the Finance Minister’s beloved daughter.
The venue had been transformed into a magnificent hall decorated with crystal chandeliers, golden ornaments, and countless fresh flowers imported from different parts of the world. Classical music drifted softly through the air while elegantly dressed guests moved from one group to another, exchanging greetings and discussing business.
Nearly every influential figure in the city had received an invitation. Top entrepreneurs, government officials, military officers, business tycoons, celebrities, and prominent families were all present. Even the Senate President attended personally, making the banquet far more prestigious than an ordinary birthday celebration.
Since the invitation had come directly from the Senate President himself, Julia naturally attended as well.
Marcus accompanied her.
The moment they entered the hall, quite a number of guests recognized Julia and politely came forward to greet her.
“We’ve heard a lot about you.”
“It’s an honor to finally meet you.”
Julia smiled politely and exchanged greetings with each of them while Marcus quietly remained beside her. Some of the businessmen tried starting conversations with her, hoping to build connections through the Senate President’s favored guest, while others subtly introduced themselves and handed over their business cards.
Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the hall, Jessica had also arrived. She came alone. Or at least… That
was what she believed.
Unknown to her, Travis had secretly followed behind after discovering where she was going.
The moment Jessica spotted Marcus standing beside Julia, her heartbeat quickened.
Taking a deep breath to steady herself, she walked directly toward him.
When she arrived, she looked only at Marcus, completely ignoring Julia’s presence.
“Marcus,” she called softly. “Can we talk?”
Marcus looked at her before asking calmly, “About what? Is there a problem?”
Jessica forced a small smile.n”Nothing serious,” she replied. “There’s just something I really need to tell
you… over a drink.”
Marcus frowned slightly.
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He glanced at Julia standing quietly beside him before looking back at Jessica.
“If it’s really that important,” he said, “you can tell me now.”
Jessica slowly shook her head.
“I’d rather tell you privately.”
Marcus remained where he was.
“If you can’t tell me what it’s about now,” he replied calmly, “then maybe we can talk after the party. I can’t just leave Julia here alone.”
Jessica felt as though someone had stabbed her heart.
Hidden inside her handbag was the small vial she had prepared days ago.
She forced herself to remain calm and smiled despite the disappointment burning inside her.
“Marcus,” she said gently, “it’s time we stopped stepping on each other’s toes. I don’t have anything against you anymore, and I’m not here to cause trouble. It’s just… something urgent.”
Marcus shook his head once again. “Then we’ll talk after the party.”
Jessica lowered her eyes briefly before lifting them again with another smile.
“Alright,” she said softly. “Whatever you want. I’ll still be here when the party ends.”
With that, she turned around and walked away.
Not far from them, Travis had witnessed the entire exchange. His fists slowly tightened until his knuckles turned white. Seeing Jessica lower herself over and over again just to speak with Marcus filled him with uncontrollable anger.
After Jessica disappeared into the crowd, Julia finally turned toward Marcus. A gentle smile appeared on her face as she said, “Thank you… for not leaving me alone to go with her.”
Marcus looked at her and gave a small shrug.
“It wasn’t even something worth thinking about,” he replied with a faint scoff. “We came here together it would make no sense for me to leave you behind just because someone else called me away
The banquet continued peacefully as guests moved from one conversation to another, enjoying the luxurious atmosphere. Just then, another wave of attention swept across the entrance.
Eden had arrived. Walking proudly beside him was Victoria.
She had clearly spent hours preparing for the occasion. Her glittering evening gown hugged every curve of her figure, leaving her shoulders and much of her back exposed. Combined with the expensive jewelry around her neck and wrists, she immediately became the center of attention as countless guests turned to admire her appearance.
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Victoria noticed every pair of eyes on her and couldn’t hide the satisfied smile spreading across her face
She deliberately slowed her pace, enjoying the admiration before her gaze landed on Julia.
Instead of taking her seat beside Eden, she changed direction and confidently walked toward Julia and Marcus
“Well, well Victoria said with a mocking smile. “You actually showed up to a banquet like this.”
Julia merely glanced at her before calmly looking away, showing no intention of responding.
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