Chapter 128
Chapter 128:
Phillip was slightly surprised when he heard Ashton’s voice behind him.
As he turned around, he saw Ashton approaching with a casual stride. Rather than feeling upset, Phillip was actually pleased that Ashton had the audacity to appear.
With a sneer, Phillip taunted, “I figured you’d have the good sense to stay away, yet here you are, ready for me to make a fool of you p>
Ashton, unfazed, met his gaze with a serene smile. “Had I not shown up, you’d label me a coward. No matter my choice, you’d find a way to put me down p>
Phillip’s response was devoid of anger. He believed victory was already in his grasp, and Ashton’s actions seemed merely foolish to him. He scoffed, “So, you can’t handle a little ridicule for your foolishness? Had you stayed away, I might have just poked fun at you. But to see you show up at such a prestigious event despite knowing full well you don’t belong here, I have to admire your thick skin p>
Despite the barbs, Ashton’s smile only widened, showing no sign of irritation. He retorted, “If someone like you can show up and embarrass yourself, why shouldn’t I? Plus, my skin isn’t as thick as yours. Remember how you acted in front of that gang leader recently? It seems you’ve forgotten already. Should I remind everyone here about your ‘brave’ display p>
Each word Ashton delivered struck a nerve with Phillip, causing his expression to darken significantly. Losing his cool, Phillip shouted, “You ungrateful fool, don’t think you can publicly slander me without facing repercussions. Say that one more time, I dare you! I’ll take you to court for defamation p>
Phillip’s outburst caught the attention of several nearby family representatives. Miriam and Matthew, though embarrassed, rushed to Phillip’s defense. With a grimace, Matthew snapped, “Ashton! Stop spreading such nonsense! Phillip is our future son-in-law. I won’t tolerate you slandering him like this p>
Miriam’s voice rose even higher. “Ashton! You good-for-nothing, expelled by the James family, and now you dare smear our future son-in-law? Remember what Phillip does for a living. He could sue you for defamation and get you behind bars in no time p>
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Listening to her parents fervently defend Phillip, a sharp sting of bitterness pierced Emalee’s heart. She was all too familiar with the events of that day. Had Ashton not intervened, she shuddered to think of what might have occurred.
Yet, despite the bitter taste lingering in her mouth, she couldn’t voice her thoughts and remained silent. After all, she had left Ashton for Phillip on her own accord. Phillip’s poor scheme was the reason Ashton had even considered dividing the assets.
Watching them continue to stand by Phillip, Ashton found the situation somewhat humorous. His knowing smile unsettled Phillip and the rest. Miriam and Matthew, though they vigorously supported Phillip, were well aware of the underlying truth. After all, it had taken a lot of effort to persuade Emalee to mend fences with Phillip.
To prevent Ashton from gaining an advantage, Phillip and his group swiftly redirected the conversation to the bidding event. Trying to contain his irritation, Phillip scoffed, “You’re just clinging to old triumphs to feel important. Remember what we’re here for today. Even if you’ve come, what of it? I doubt you even meet the criteria to step inside p>