Chapter 567
The birthday party was held at the Ninth Mansion.
Maria and Aveline stepped into the spacious private room, only to find it buzzing with activity. The air was thick with the chatter of Cloudflare City's young elite - scions of powerful families, each face a reminder of influence and wealth.
Maria's eyes darted around, acutely aware that in this sea of privilege, she was an unknown.
Some recognized Aveline but didn't approach her. They were aware of her identity and also knew about her divorce from Lucas. In their eyes, Aveline was now insignificant.
Maria led Aveline to a corner, her eyes gleaming as she looked at the crowd. "Ave, do you know what I see when I look at these people? Flashing dollar signs!"
Aveline smiled and said, "Getting them to turn into dollar signs in your pocket won't be so simple."
Maria glanced at her. “Why worry? I've got you, don't I? Just show them some of your designs, and they'll be blown away. My studio's phone will be ringing off the hook!" Aveline smiled. "You have too much faith in me."
Bringing Aveline here might have been a mistake on Maria's part because Aveline also recognized many familiar faces-people who had attended Barbara's birthday banquet. They all knew her identity and were well aware that she no longer had any ties to Lucas. There was no way they'd give her any attention.
Aveline quietly nibbled on some fruit. If nothing else, the fruit here was truly sweet.
Maria stayed with her for a while, but she couldn't sit still. After exchanging a few words, she got up to chat with some of the handsome men around.
Maria had an excellent appearance and knew just how to say things men liked to hear. Before long, she was engaged in lively conversations with a few guys.
Aveline took one glance at them before she turned her attention back to the fruit on her plate.
"Aveline."
A familiar voice suddenly broke the silence. Aveline looked up to see Sasha standing beside her, smiling warmly.
Aveline was a bit surprised. "Miss Winter, you're here too."
Sasha nodded. “It's the Johnson family's heiress' birthday. All the young members of families close to them are here. What surprises me is seeing you here.” Aveline smiled lightly. "I'm here as a plus-one with my boss."
She pointed with her chin toward Maria.
Sasha glanced over and then sat down beside Aveline. I thought you came with Mr. Tudor. I was wondering if you and he had reconciled, which would mean Sophia's plans would fall through." Aveline's eyelashes fluttered slightly, but she didn't respond.Belongs to NôvelDrama.Org - All rights reserved.
Her relationship with Lucas was... complicated.
They were divorced, yet somehow entangled again. It was exhausting, and she couldn't seem to break free.
Sasha took a sip of champagne and said, “My family found out that DK Group is investing in Sophia's company. Now my parents are all over her again. With how much Barbara likes her, I feel like I'm about to be pushed out of the Winter family."
Hearing this, Aveline pressed her lips together and said, "I'm sorry. If I hadn't dragged you into this, maybe she wouldn't be targeting you.”
Sasha shook her head. "It's not your fault. She's always been targeting me; she just didn't have enough leverage before. And now... well, there's no point dwelling on it.”
She let out a bitter laugh. "If my parents are really planning to abandon and go abroad."
ne, then I'll leave Cloudflare City
Aveline felt a pang of guilt, but seeing Sasha's calm expression, she didn't know what to say.