Chapter 6

Upon hearing this, the entire banquet hall fell silent. Everyone’s gaze was focused on me. "Explain? Explain what? Could it be true, as the rumors say, that Miss Everard is the creator of ’First Love’?" Hearing this, Julian Lancaster’s gaze tightened. "Of course not. Clara only provided the spice; it’s a business secret, not convenient to discuss further." Serena Sullivan seemed on the verge of tears, shaking her head constantly, her voice choked. "Julian, as long as you believe me, I don’t care if they all misunderstand me!" The two of them locked eyes, seeing only each other, their intimate connection so pronounced it hurt my eyes. I quietly watched this scene, my heart numb. I clenched my hand tightly, my nails leaving blood marks in my palm, suppressing the urge to turn and leave. I told myself, don’t rush, the good show is yet to come. Previously, it was my wishful thinking, believing I could exchange talent and effort for a bit of his true affection. But now, I see reality clearly, fully awakened. I watched Julian Lancaster protect Serena behind him, his tone tender enough to drip water. "You may not care, but I can’t let you suffer grievances. I’ll prove to everyone that you’re the one-and-only genius." After speaking, he called his assistant and announced on the spot that Aethel would collaborate with Caelus, the largest luxury group, to launch a new haute couture perfume, with the designer being Serena Sullivan. The news caused a stir throughout the venue. The industry insiders immediately gathered, with endless congratulations and compliments. Before the ceremony began, Serena Sullivan walked to me with a glass of champagne, unable to hide her pride in her tone. "Clara Everard, the photographer I hired, is stuck in traffic., I heard your photography skills are good. Can you help Julian and me capture this important moment?" Julian Lancaster happened to hear this, instinctively feeling that I might try to sabotage, wanting to stop it. But I surprisingly agreed, taking the phone she handed over. "Sure, I’ll do my best to help you capture this happy moment." Julian Lancaster was slightly taken aback, unable to believe I would be so compliant. After a moment of thought, he picked up his phone, sent me a message. "I’ve already promised, once Aethel is launched, I’ll marry you. Serena is my most important partner in business; she needs this opportunity. Even if you’re jealous, don’t think of disrupting. Otherwise, weigh the consequences for The Everards." I looked at this message and smiled silently. My Everard Family has already been eaten alive by my stupidity. How could I willingly ask for more suffering? I didn’t reply, just opened the camera, aiming at the center of the crowd. In the lens, Julian Lancaster, impeccably dressed, raised his glass and confidently walked up to Serena Sullivan. He held her hand, with unwavering tenderness in his eyes. "Everyone, from the first day I founded Aethel, Serena has been my only source of inspiration. Her talent, her designs, are the soul of Aethel. Today, I’m very happy to collaborate with Elysian Group to create a bigger stage for Serena. I believe she will once again amaze the world." His deeply affectionate "confession" fell on my ears, and I felt nothing but irony. And just steps away, Serena Sullivan was moved to tears, tightly embracing him. The frolic and applause were unending. I captured the entire scene of this "man and woman in love," completing the task perfectly.