?Chapter 929:


    Meanwhile, in the middle of the dance floor, Brendon caught sight of Christina’s hurried exit, a faint smirk ying at the corner of his lips. In his mind, she must have been simmering with jealousy, storming off in a huff. His ex-wife clearly wasn’t over him; her envy was written all over her reaction.


    The thought alone lightened his mood, sweeping away the gloom from earlier. He knew it. Christina still cared for him.


    “Miss Reynolds, where are you trying to hide?” Christina stepped into Lorraine’s path, a teasing smile on her lips.


    Lorraine’s eyes narrowed in irritation. She had nned to vanish for a while, only to reappearter and enjoy the banquet unnoticed. Who would have guessed Christina woulde after her immediately after the dance?


    “I don’t know what you’re talking about. I was just heading to the restroom. Is that a problem? Do I need your permission for that?” Lorraine lied smoothly.


    “Of course not.” Christina’s answer came without pause. “But I would like you to honor your promise and leave the birthday banquet.”


    Lorraine’s hands curled tightly into fists at her sides. She had donned thevish gown designed by Allison, intending to catch the eye of eligible bachelors in Lorbridge. Leaving so soon would mean her two-hundred-million-dor expense on the dress was wasted.


    When Lorraine first realized she had lost the wager, she had briefly considered keeping her word and leaving, but the thought of her costly preparations made her reconsider. Better to find a way to wriggle out of the wager.


    The very next moment, Lorraine clutched at her stomach, her features contorting in theatrical pain.


    “Agonizing stomach pain?” Christina’s lips curved faintly, her tone carrying a subtle sting as she saw right through Lorraine’s act. “Even if you were doubled over in cramps, you’d still have to leave.”


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    After all, Christina was the renowned healer, the King. One nce was enough for her to discern whether Lorraine was genuinely unwell. There was no question in her mind—Lorraine was feigning illness, hoping to wriggle her way out of the situation.


    “I’ll leave,” Lorraine stammered, her voice trembling with feigned agony. “But please… May I at least use the bathroom first?”


    “No. Keep your word and leave this instant.” Christina’s reply was crisp, her refusal cutting and absolute. Did Lorraine truly believe she could deceive her with such a pitiful act?


    Lorraine’s teeth clenched behind closed lips, a glint of spite flickering in her eyes. She had feigned the pain so convincingly, yet Christina showed no hint of softening, no scrap of sympathy.


    “And if I refuse to honor the wager? What then?” Lorraine’s voice dripped with mockery.


    “If you refuse, I’ll simply call on Mr. Scott. His security will see you out, and you’ll have the humiliation you seem so eager to invite,” Christina replied, her casual smileced with quiet confidence.<fn85af> Fresh chapters posted on F?ndNovel</fn85af>


    Lorraine’splexion nched, and for a moment, uncertainty clouded her face. But just as quickly, her mind found an anchor—her closeness to Celine. She was, for all intents and purposes, practically part of the Miller household. Given the long-standing ties between the Scott and Miller families, Dn would hardly turn cold toward her. Not when she appeared to be in such obvious distress. Even if he harbored feelings for Christina, he would not disregard the courtesy owed between the two families.


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