Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 23

As soon as the door swung open, the private dining room fell into a hushed silence.

When the guests saw Aaron Vance enter, they all stood up to greet him. "Mr. Vance," they chorused.

Tonight was the birthday celebration for Frederick Foster, and Aaron, being a close friend of Frederick's, was naturally expected to make an appearance. What caught everyone off guard, however, was that he was alone.

Unable to resist, someone asked, "Mr. Vance, where's Miss Sullivan?"

The question barely hung in the air before another voice chimed in with a teasing remark. "Are you kidding? Since when has Serena ever missed a chance to follow Mr. Vance around? She's like his shadow."

Aaron had already taken his seat, crossing his long legs with an air of cool detachment. His presence, though calm, was tinged with a frosty aura, and his expression remained inscrutable.

The chatter continued unabated. "I remember last year at Mr. Foster's birthday party, Serena was glued to Mr. Vance, watching him like a hawk to make sure no other woman got too close."

erupted around the

Aaron's face was obscured by shadows, his memories were crystal clear. Last year, he had indeed brought Serena along, but it was at his suggestion, not hers. Frederick's parties were notorious for attracting celebrities and online influencers who, knowing Aaron's status, always found some excuse to cozy up to him. He found their antics-spilling drinks on him or "accidentally" slipping into his arms-exhausting. So

he know how others perceived

the blue flame illuminating his

Northspire," he announced, his deep, resonant voice cutting through the

a moment, silence

Then, laughter erupted anew.

Vance. Bringing Miss Lynwood back so openly must have ruffled Serena's feathers. She's probably playing hard to get,

Aaron and Serena officially got together, suggesting that Aaron had a girlfriend abroad. When Cynthia Lynwood returned to town, those whispers were confirmed Aaron did

Serena her opportunity. The circle had always looked down on Serena for her apparent devotion to Aaron, seeing her as nothing more than a hanger-on. Now, learning she was the other woman made her even less favorable in

Vance. Every time she comes running back to you. I bet she'll be