Chapter 632
Chapter 632:
Austin didn’t even glance her way. His gaze remained fixed on Yelena, waiting for her to speak. His indifference said it all.
Amanda felt as if a cold wave had washed over her, leaving her frozen and hollow.
Unable to bear the humiliation, she covered her face and hurriedly fled from the crowd.
Her vision blurred with tears as she ran. In her haste, she collided with someone, nearly losing her balance. A pair of strong hands steadied her, and she looked up to see Monica’s familiar face.
At the sight of her cousin, Amanda’s fragile composure shattered. “Monica,” she cried, her voice choked with emotion.
Monica quickly wrapped an arm around Amanda and spoke soothingly, helping to wipe away her tears. “What’s wrong? It’s your birthday—you should be smiling, not crying p>
Sniffling, Amanda tried to pull herself together. In a halting voice, she explained the events that had just unfolded. “I didn’t mean for it to happen. How was I supposed to know Yelena would present the gift on Austin’s behalf p>
As Monica listened, her expression darkened with every word.
Back in the banquet hall, Yelena turned to Austin, her brows arched in curiosity. “Why did you come over? Didn’t you say you were busy p>
Austin gave a faint, helpless smile. “I went to the airport to meet someone but missed them. Since the banquet was still happening, I thought I’d drop by p>
In truth, Austin had come solely because of Yelena.
Yelena responded with a simple, indifferent, “Alright,” offering no follow-up questions. She wouldn’t ask whom Austin had been trying to meet either. If he wanted to share, he would have done so already.
At that moment, Monica approached, gently leading Amanda over. She greeted Austin politely before saying, “Austin, it’s Amanda’s birthday today. Shouldn’t it be a joyous occasion p>
Austin gave a slight nod. “Of course p>
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Amanda exhaled in relief, her anxiety easing. She shot Monica a grateful look, silently thanking her for stepping in. If it hadn’t been for Monica’s intervention, Amanda doubted Austin would have let the matter slide so easily.
In that moment, Amanda realized how much influence Monica seemed to have over Austin.
Monica, for her part, felt a touch of pride. She believed Austin valued her opinion—why else would he heed her suggestion so readily?
However, Austin wasn’t concerned with such trivialities.
In fact, if Yelena hadn’t mentioned the issue, he wouldn’t even have known what the gift in question was.
With the minor drama resolved, the banquet officially began. As the birthday celebrant, Amanda naturally became the center of attention. Yelena, meanwhile, quietly observed the festivities, enjoying the evening in her own understated way.
She occasionally exchanged words with Austin, her poise and eloquence earning admiration from many around her.
Bella, however, worked hard to attract attention. She mingled energetically, determined to stand out. Yet, no matter how much effort she put in, she couldn’t outshine Yelena’s effortless brilliance.
Midway through the event, Amanda invited Monica to the stage for a speech.
Monica ascended the platform with grace. In a warm yet confident voice, she said, “Dear Amanda, thank you for inviting me to your birthday celebration. Happy birthday, and may every day of your life be as radiant as today p>
The room erupted in applause. Monica’s speech was brief but heartfelt, leaving Amanda visibly touched.
Yelena, however, found the speeches boring. She leaned toward Austin and said, “Excuse me for a moment p>
Without Yelena by his side, Austin felt little inclination to stay. Her presence was the only reason he tolerated such an otherwise dull party.