Chapter 170
Three days later, one of the grandest celebrations in the city was held.
It was the birthday banquet of the Finance Minister’s beloved daughter.
The venue had been transformed into a magnificent hall decorated with crystal chandeliers, golden ornaments, and countless fresh flowers imported from different parts of the world. Classical music drifted softly through the air while elegantly dressed guests moved from one group to another, exchanging greetings and discussing business.
Nearly every influential figure in the city had received an invitation. Top entrepreneurs, government officials, military officers, business tycoons, celebrities, and prominent families were all present. Even the Senate President attended personally, making the banquet far more prestigious than an ordinary birthday celebration.
Since the invitation had come directly from the Senate President himself, Julia naturally attended as well.
Marcus accompanied her.
The moment they entered the hall, quite a number of guests recognized Julia and politely came forward to greet her.
“We’ve heard a lot about you p>
“It’s an honor to finally meet you p>
Julia smiled politely and exchanged greetings with each of them while Marcus quietly remained beside her. Some of the businessmen tried starting conversations with her, hoping to build connections through the Senate President’s favored guest, while others subtly introduced themselves and handed over their business cards.
Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the hall, Jessica had also arrived. She came alone. Or at least… That
was what she believed.
Unknown to her, Travis had secretly followed behind after discovering where she was going.
The moment Jessica spotted Marcus standing beside Julia, her heartbeat quickened.
Taking a deep breath to steady herself, she walked directly toward him.
When she arrived, she looked only at Marcus, completely ignoring Julia’s presence.
“Marcus,” she called softly. “Can we talk p>
Marcus looked at her before asking calmly, “About what? Is there a problem p>
Jessica forced a small smile.n”Nothing serious,” she replied. “There’s just something I really need to tell
you… over a drink p>
Marcus frowned slightly.
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He glanced at Julia standing quietly beside him before looking back at Jessica.
“If it’s really that important,” he said, “you can tell me now p>
Jessica slowly shook her head.
“I’d rather tell you privately p>
Marcus remained where he was.
“If you can’t tell me what it’s about now,” he replied calmly, “then maybe we can talk after the party. I can’t just leave Julia here alone p>
Jessica felt as though someone had stabbed her heart.
Hidden inside her handbag was the small vial she had prepared days ago.
She forced herself to remain calm and smiled despite the disappointment burning inside her.
“Marcus,” she said gently, “it’s time we stopped stepping on each other’s toes. I don’t have anything against you anymore, and I’m not here to cause trouble. It’s just… something urgent p>
Marcus shook his head once again. “Then we’ll talk after the party p>
Jessica lowered her eyes briefly before lifting them again with another smile.
“Alright,” she said softly. “Whatever you want. I’ll still be here when the party ends p>
With that, she turned around and walked away.
Not far from them, Travis had witnessed the entire exchange. His fists slowly tightened until his knuckles turned white. Seeing Jessica lower herself over and over again just to speak with Marcus filled him with uncontrollable anger.
After Jessica disappeared into the crowd, Julia finally turned toward Marcus. A gentle smile appeared on her face as she said, “Thank you… for not leaving me alone to go with her p>
Marcus looked at her and gave a small shrug.
“It wasn’t even something worth thinking about,” he replied with a faint scoff. “We came here together it would make no sense for me to leave you behind just because someone else called me away
The banquet continued peacefully as guests moved from one conversation to another, enjoying the luxurious atmosphere. Just then, another wave of attention swept across the entrance.
Eden had arrived. Walking proudly beside him was Victoria.
She had clearly spent hours preparing for the occasion. Her glittering evening gown hugged every curve of her figure, leaving her shoulders and much of her back exposed. Combined with the expensive jewelry around her neck and wrists, she immediately became the center of attention as countless guests turned to admire her appearance.
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Victoria noticed every pair of eyes on her and couldn’t hide the satisfied smile spreading across her face
She deliberately slowed her pace, enjoying the admiration before her gaze landed on Julia.
Instead of taking her seat beside Eden, she changed direction and confidently walked toward Julia and Marcus
“Well, well Victoria said with a mocking smile. “You actually showed up to a banquet like this p>
Julia merely glanced at her before calmly looking away, showing no intention of responding.
Victoria let out a soft laugh.
1 know you’re pretending not to care,” she continued, “but that’s fine. Keep acting indifferent while you still can. Very soon, the Minister of Finance himself will publicly announce the partnership between our company and Eden’s. When that happens, everyone here will know exactly who stands above whom p>
Julia remained silent.
Marcus, however, smiled faintly before saying, “You should at least wait for it to happen before boasting
about it p>
Victoria laughed loudly as though she had just heard the funniest joke.
“You think I’d brag without certainty?” she asked proudly. “I’m not someone who runs her mouth without results. Everything has already been settled. So instead of acting jealous, you two should start getting used to reality p>
Marcus simply folded his arms, his expression remaining as calm as ever.
At that moment, Eden finally stepped forward. His eyes settled on Marcus as he wrapped an arm possessively around Victoria’s waist.
“And another thing,” he said coldly, “watch how you speak to my fiancée. I’m a very protective man, and I don’t tolerate anyone disrespecting her. Anyone who stands in her way… I will remove them myself p>
Marcus met his gaze without the slightest hint of fear.
A faint smirk slowly appeared on his face.
“Say whatever you want,” he replied calmly. “Enjoy these moments while you still can… because your end is much closer than you think p>
P
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Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.