Chapter 59
Jessica had indeed seen Brian at first glance among the crowd. Of course, she had also seen Madeline standing beside him:
Jessica scoffed in her mind, ‘Even at such an important event, Brian still brought Madeline with him. Just how special is Madeline in his eyes? We haven’t even finalized our divorce, and he’s already parading her around in public.
Brian’s gaze grew increasingly complex, while Jessica calmly looked away.
With poise and confidence, Jessica’s clear voice rang through the hall at just the right volume. “Dear guests, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules and…”
After speaking, she gracefully linked her arm through Dereck’s and walked down the stairs.
With Dereck’s introduction, she began engaging with the guests in a composed and friendly manner.
A woman said to Jessica, “Jessi, I haven’t seen you in years. Have you been studying abroad during this time?”
Someone flattered Dereck. “Mr. Grant, I’m so jealous that you have such an excellent daughter.”
“Mr. Lynn, Mrs. Lynn, I’m so flattered. If you keep complimenting me, I’m really soaring into the sky,” Jessica replied, drawing warm laughter from the Lynns.
After some pleasantries, Dereck led her on to meet other guests. Many of them Jessica had met when she was young, and those were mostly prominent businesspeople who had achieved remarkable success.
Amid the polite conversation, Jessica could feel a strong gaze constantly following her. She didn’t need to turn around to know exactly who it was. She paid it no mind.
Another pair of eyes, however, drew her attention. Jessica looked coldly toward the source and saw Madeline stand at a distance and stare at her with a look of total breakdown.
Madeline couldn’t accept the truth that Jessica was the daughter of the Grant family and the heiress to the entire company.
Jessica could already tell what Madeline was thinking with just a glance. It was nothing more than envy of her background.
After making a full round and toasting with most guests, Jessica had essentially made herself known among the circle. During this entire time, Brian never found a chance to approach her.
Jessica seized a brief moment to go to the restroom. Just as she stepped out, Brian blocked her way.
“Jessi, you-” Brian wanted to ask why she lied to him, but then he realized Jessica hadn’t really lied at all.
“Jessi, there must be some misunderstanding between us. Can you give me a chance to explain?” Brian took a step closer, his gaze dark and steady as he stared at her.
Tonight, Jessica looked breathtaking. The custom–made white gown illuminated her flawless skin. The tailored waistline accentuated her figure, giving her an air of noble elegance.
Jessica said with a frown, “Brian, tonight is the party my dad holds to formally announce my identity. I hope you won’t cause any trouble.”
She tried to push him aside, but Brian didn’t budge. Instead, he seized her hand and pressed it, firmly against his chest.
“Jessi,” he said, still looking into her eyes.
Brian helplessly thought, ‘Jessica has been suspicious of my relationship with Madeline, but I have always kept it clean. There’s nothing inappropriate between me and Madeline.
For a moment, he couldn’t find the right words. Eventually, he said, “Jake misses you. Will you come home to see him?”
“I will. I was already planning to visit him soon,” Jessica replied without hesitation, her words catching Brian off guard.
Taking advantage of his momentary daze, she pulled her hand back.
Brian stood there, not stopping her any further.
After several rounds of toasting, Jessica’s head began to feel light and dizzy.
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Chapter 59
Even though she only took a sip each time, hours of standing, smiling, and chatting had drained her energy-
She walked upstairs straight toward her room to rest.
Madeline came storming after her and yelled, “Jessica, you must feel so smug, huh? You’ve been laughing at me the whole time, haven’t you??”
Before Jessica could respond, Madeline broke down completely. So what if you’re the heiress of Grant Group? Brian still wants to divorce you. Jake loves me, not his biological mother.
Madeline’s jealousy was almost eating her alive. She had nearly lost her mind and was now shouting insults at Jessica with her finger pointed in rage.
She could not accept that Jessica’s life was so smooth and lucky.
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