?Chapter 597:


    On the stage, Christina addressed the three maestros, saying, “Alright, rise now. The audience is watching us.”


    It was only then that the three of them straightened up. The Prince moved closer once again, hoping to stay near Christina, but she raised her hand, stopping him by the arm.


    “Christina…” The Prince looked at her with a sorrowful expression, his tone gentle and imploring, a stark contrast to his earlier aloof demeanor.


    “You’re a grown man. Stop acting so attached,” Christina said with a resigned smile. “As the prince of a nation, you should carry yourself with moreposure.”


    A bashful grin appeared on the Prince’s face. “I couldn’t help it. I’m overly thrilled after finally meeting you.”


    “Christina, I’m craving a cuddle too,” Pe chimed in cheerfully. Christina was preparing to embrace her when Brendon’s voice rang out, “Are you even aware of what you’re doing?”


    Brendon scowled, irritation clear on his face as he fixed his gaze on Christina. “Why did you let the Prince bow to you?” In his mind, she was in for big trouble, yet her smile only deepened his irritation.


    Christina responded, “It’s not like I forced anyone to bow to me.”


    “Regardless, it’s your fault for letting them bow to you,” Brendon retorted, his expression thick with disapproval.


    “Christina, your actionsck forethought. If rumors of the Prince showing reverence get back to Eighshire and provoke the monarchy, it won’t just affect you—the Dawson lineage could suffer too…” Ynda pointed out.


    “If you’re so concerned, then go ahead and throw yourself under the carriage to fix this mess,” Christina shot back, casting Ynda a sharp re.


    The three maestros nearly burst from trying to suppress theirughter. They couldn’t help but admire their mentor’s sharp tongue.


    “Christina, how could you say that? I only spoke out of concern for you,” Ynda said, turning to Brendon, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.


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    Feeling sympathy for her, Brendon red up and snapped at Christina, “You have no right to speak to Ynda like that! This is Ynda and my engagement party. Please leave, you’re not wee here.”


    Christina arched her brow. “I’ll go, but I must collect what’s owed to me first.”


    “What are you referring to?” Brendon asked, confused.


    Christina didn’t bother addressing him. She grasped the mic and surveyed the attendees assembled before the stage. “I won the bet. Those who staked five million each earlier—go ahead and send your dues,” she announced, her eyes narrowing on the five individuals.


    Before the five could argue, Christina added, “Don’t tell me you’re trying to wriggle out of the deal? Mr. Gardner, Mr. Cruz—you both hold senior positions at major firms in Lorbridge. Surely, you won’t flinch over such a minor figure, right?”


    She deliberately singled out the two men with well-paying jobs. With countless spectators present, backing out was not an option for them, especially when their reputations were at stake.


    “Previously, you all wagered that if I convinced the three maestros here to refer to me as their mentor, I would im victory,” Christina exined to the confused guests. Upon hearing her words, their puzzled expressions shifted to realization.


    The five, who had initially thought of ying deaf, noticed the growing number of spectators casting scornful looks. They knew escape was impossible.


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