Ethan's expression darkened slightly at the sight of the man before him, his displeasure barely concealed.
Sensing the tension, Alexander smoothly continued, "James runs ADC International Psychological Counseling Center, the largest institution of its kind in the country. They have branches nationwide and are now planning to open another center here in Crown City."
James's expansion required tens of thousands of square meters for business premises. The Thomas family happened to own an unsold suburban property—15,000 square meters, valued at around 700 million. It was clear Alexander aimed to sell it, which explained his eagerness to establish a connection with James.
James extended a hand toward Ethan. "Ethan, what a coincidence. We meet again."
Though the situation made it impossible for Ethan to ignore the gesture, he didn't bother to hide his reluctance. With a forced smile, he shook James's hand. "Welcome, Mr. Thompson."
Alexander, sensing something amiss, looked between them in confusion. "Wait—you two already know each other?"
"Yes, we met just yesterday," James replied, his tone deliberately ambiguous. "It seems fate keeps bringing Mr. Ethan and me together."
Ethan shot Alexander a pointed look, subtly urging him to drop the topic.
Taking the hint, Alexander smoothly redirected the conversation. "Mr. Thompson, I think I just saw Emma looking for you. Why don't you go say hello?"
Emma, Alexander's younger sister, had been the one to introduce James to their circle.
James nodded, understanding the subtext. "Of course. Excuse me."
As James walked away, Emma noticed Ethan's unusual mood.
"What happened?" she asked. "Did James upset you?"
Ethan sneered faintly. "Him? He's insignificant—just James Thompson."
Before she could press further, the host's voice boomed across the hall.
"Now, let's welcome our esteemed guest of honor, Lady Hannah! A round of applause, please!"
---
A Captivating Presence
All eyes turned toward the grand staircase.
Grandma Hannah descended gracefully, flanked by Isabella and Lady Emily on either side. The trio paused briefly at the top of the revolving staircase, smiling warmly at the gathered guests, before proceeding downward in perfect synchrony.
The golden stage lights bathed them in an ethereal glow, amplifying the elegance of the moment.
Ethan's gaze instinctively sought out Isabella, and his expression immediately darkened.
Who chose that dress for her?
The level of exposure was utterly inappropriate.
Yet, even as irritation simmered beneath his skin, he couldn't look away.
Tonight, Isabella was nothing like the timid girl he had once known. She exuded elegance and grace, her faint smile enhancing her already breathtaking beauty. The effortless confidence in her posture and expression held the room captive.
A murmur rippled through the crowd.
"Wow, she's stunning!" someone exclaimed.
Ethan's jaw tightened as he turned toward the source of the comment. A well-known idle rich heir, infamous for his indulgence in luxury and scandal, was ogling Isabella with an openly appreciative gaze.
Without hesitation, Ethan signaled to his men. Within moments, the offender was discreetly escorted out.
Alexander, having witnessed the exchange, suppressed a chuckle behind his wine glass.
"Mr. Ethan, your possessiveness is showing," he teased. "Your reaction just now nearly scared that poor guy out of his wits!"
Ethan's expression remained cold. "I just don't like the sight of him."
Before Alexander could respond, the banquet hall suddenly fell silent.
Moments later, the soothing melody of a pipa filled the air.
---
The Sound of Spring
Isabella had taken the stage, presenting the first birthday gift to Madam Hannah—an exquisite rendition of the classic piece Spring.
The composition, known for its ability to capture the warmth and vitality of the season, flowed effortlessly under her skilled fingers. Each note resonated through the hall, light and lively, drawing the audience into a mesmerizing soundscape.
The guests watched in silent admiration, captivated.
"I must admit," Alexander remarked, impressed, "I didn't expect Isabella to play so beautifully. Seems like the rumors about her weren't entirely fair."
Ethan scoffed dismissively. "You haven't seen her throw a tantrum. She's a completely different person."
Alexander chuckled. "A beauty playing the piano will always win hearts, tantrums or not. Besides, aren't you two getting divorced soon? Mark my words, once she's single, Isabella will become Crown City's most eligible socialite."
Ethan's jaw clenched, his expression growing icier.
Unfazed, Alexander continued, oblivious to the storm he was stirring. "Think about it—she's breathtaking, even more so than most celebrities. And she's only 22. Being divorced won't change the fact that she's young, rich, and stunning. After the split, I bet plenty of men will line up to pursue her."
Ethan's mood darkened further. He loosened his tie, struggling to suppress the inexplicable irritation welling up inside him.
Finally, his voice dripped with warning as he muttered, "Let's see who dares."
Alexander raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Do I sense jealousy? Don't tell me you're reluctant to let her go?"
Ethan's mind flashed back to their last encounter—the unexpected kiss, the way her lips had lingered against his.
Annoyed at himself for even thinking about it, he downed the rest of his champagne and muttered, "I'm stepping out for some air."
Alexander merely watched him go, amusement flickering in his eyes.
After her performance, Isabella found herself surrounded by admirers. Exhausted from the attention, she slipped onto the balcony, seeking a moment of peace.
However, as she rounded a corner, she accidentally collided with someone.
A sharp gasp followed as a glass of red wine spilled over an expensive gown.
Isabella's eyes widened. "Oh no! I'm so sorry!"
The victim turned slowly, eyes blazing with fury.
Chloe.
"You did this on purpose, didn't you?!" Chloe shrieked.
Isabella took a deep breath, reigning in her frustration. "It was an accident, Chloe. I'll have the staff bring you another dress."
But her calm response only seemed to enrage Chloe further.
Louder this time, she sneered, "Don't think you're better than me just because you married Ethan!"
Several guests turned their heads, interest piqued by the unfolding drama.
Isabella's gaze remained steady. "I never said I was."
Chloe scoffed. "You act all refined now, but we both know you're just playing the role of Ethan's wife. Once the divorce is finalized, you'll be nothing but an abandoned woman!"
A hush fell over the onlookers.
Isabella met Chloe's glare with an unwavering expression.
"Then let's hope," she said quietly, "that I don't outshine you even after I'm divorced."
With that, she turned and walked away, leaving Chloe fuming behind her.