The Jilted Heiress' Return To The High Life

Chapter 81

Chapter 81 Fainting

Corrine's steps faltered for a fraction of a second, but she neither turned to face him nor gave any acknowledgment to his words.

Bruce's comment, however, caught Karina's attention. Her brows lifted in curiosity. "Didn't you sever all ties with the Ashton family? And back then, they barely tolerated you. Why the sudden invitation to Farris' birthday party?"

When Corrine had concealed her identity and followed Bruce back to the Ashton family, not a single member had shown her kindness. Behind closed doors, they ridiculed her and barred her from public appearances, deeming it unseemly for a young woman to be in the spotlight. The truth was, they feared that Corrine, with her humble origins, would embarrass them and tarnish the Ashton name.

Corrine's tone was calm, her words measured. "Farris gave me something years ago. Once I return it, any ties we have will be completely severed."

Karina sighed softly, her gaze distant as though recalling a memory. "Farris had such sharp instincts back then. It's a shame his family don't share his wisdom." She shook her head slightly. "But I can't help feeling uneasy-what if those ingrates try to cause trouble during the party?"

Corrine glanced at her from the corner of her eye, her voice light yet unyielding. "That's their decision. As long as they're not afraid of ruining the party

themselves."

Leaving the studio behind, Corrine returned to the company.

She dove straight into a two-hour meeting about the land in the southern district, focusing intently on every detail. Afterward, she retreated to her office, burying herself

in more work.

by the time she lifted her head, the golden hues

standing at attention

he has something urgent

from annoyance at Jackie's timing. A sudden,

her abdomen, causing her to

her stomach to brace against the discomfort. Her voice remained even. "If it isn't

briskly and exited the

over her desk, her breathing shallow as the pain intensified. Her other hand balled into a tight fist,

what felt like an eternity, the

a shaky breath. She poured herself a cup of warm water and brought it to her

and a little rest would ease the discomfort. By the end of the day, however, the pain struck with renewed intensity,

on the desk just as she doubled over, her teeth clenched tightly

but another searing wave of

to the floor. The phone slipped from her

voice filtered through the phone, cool yet laced with an undeniable warmth, his familiar tone softening the sharp chill that seemed

stomach, her body trembling as she fought

shaky breath, she tried to steady herself enough to respond. "N-Nate..." Her voice cracked under the