?Chapter 460:


    “Look at him—he’s not even verified, yet he already acts so full of himself. If he’s proven to be Tiana’s protégé, he’ll be even more conceited.”


    “That kind of disdain for everyone actually fits the bill. Only someone with serious credentials would dare to act that way.”


    “He’s just bluffing. Tiana’s known for her humility. She’d never ept someone that conceited into her circle.”


    Murmurs rippled throughout the hall, each nce directed at Lyman brimming with skepticism and silent criticism.


    Privately, Lyman relished their disapproval, his steps growing even more self-important as he made his way toward Kurt. He donned a mask of courtesy. “Mr. Miller, it’s an honor to attend your birthday banquet as Lorraine’s mentor. Thank you for your invitation. If you appreciate piano music, I’d love to y a piece as my gift—if you’ll permit me.”


    Though the words sounded respectful, an undercurrent of arrogance hinted at his need to appear superior.


    A casual wave of Kurt’s hand apanied a smile. “No need to rush,” he replied, seemingly unfazed by Lyman’s arrogance.


    Unaware of the storm brewing, Lyman kept his pleasant facade, oblivious to the true mood in the room. His gaze traveled until itnded on Christina, and for a moment, he seemed entranced. None of the other women couldpare to her allure—her beauty, her aura, she stood out from the rest.


    Christina offered only the faintest of smiles, one that never reached her eyes. Had she been aware of the thoughts swirling in Lyman’s head at that moment, there was no doubt she would surely step forward and bring this delusional fool back to reality.


    A slight furrow appeared on Dn’s brow as he caught Lyman’s shameless stare on Christina. His voice was firm and direct. “Are you really a protégé of Tiana?”


    Only then did Lyman finally register Dn’s presence—he’d been far too busy scanning the room for the most eligible socialite. And the moment his eyes settled on Dn, a jolt of surprise ran through him, catching himpletely off guard.


    Lyman studied Dn with careful eyes, taking a long moment before he dared to speak the name and confirm who he truly was. “You’re Mr. Scott, aren’t you?” With that, he stepped forward, still managing to project an air of self-importance.


    ???€$t ￠?αρ?ёя? 1π [dot


    Dn’s response came cold as ice. “That’s right.”


    “Answer the question—are you Tiana’s protégé or not?”


    Robin nced at Lyman with displeasure.


    Earlier, Lyman’s hungry gaze toward Christina had left Robin deeply annoyed. Disapproval of Christina aside, Robin had no intention of letting someone disrespect her, especially with such brazen interest. He considered it an act of restraint not to knock Lyman out on the spot.


    Irked by Robin’s confrontational tone, Lyman shed a provocative grin, deliberately ignoring him.


    That insolent attitude made more than a few guests itch to take him down a peg.


    A knowing smirk yed on Christina’s lips. “You’re no protégé of Tiana.”


    Lyman bristled instantly. “And what makes you say that? Do you have proof, Miss? usations without evidence are grounds for awsuit.”


    Lorraine wasted no time jumping to his defense. “That’s right! Mr. Patel really is Tiana’s protégé. Keep making baseless ims, and you’ll have to answer to thew.”


    .


    .


    .