Chapter 20

"Roger's a complete fool." Alexia spoke with an icy calm, but a hint of irritation slipped through. "I've begged for that divorce a hundred times. He dodges my calls, ignores every message... He could just disappear for all I care. It'd save everyone a headache."

Strangely enough, fate seemed to listen. That same night, Roger got into a car wreck. He was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery.

Panic swept through the Gibson family. Even the old patriarch, Allen, fighting through aching joints and stubborn pride, found himself hobbling into the hospital long after midnight.

Marilee showed up not long after, conveniently crossing paths with the family. She wasted no time putting on a display of heartfelt concern, flitting around like she couldn't bear to leave Roger's side Watching from the sidelines, Gloria leaned closer to Allen and murmured, "Marilee's a lovely girl-polite,no drama, and her career's taking off. Since Roger's interested in her, why not give them your blessing?"

Allen slammed his cane on the floor, clearly irritated.

That's what's on your mind right now? There are bigger issues. Has anyone figured out how this crash happened? He was driving a brand-new Rolls-Royce,top of the line. How does a luxury car lose control,blow a tire, and slam into a guardrail? That doesn't just happen by chance!"

Gloria's expression turned serious. "We've already got people digging intoit."

While the family speculated, Marilee nervously paced the hospital corridor. Eventually, she took out her phone and called her mother.

"Mom, something's happened to Roger. The injuries Look bad. He probably won't be able to show up for the Chamber of Commerce's gala this weekend."

A heavy pause hung in the air before Evelyn finally replied, voice calm and measured, "Forget the gala Clear your schedule and stay with him. That's your only job now."

"Mom!" Marilee blurted out, frustration edging her tone, before quickly lowering her voice so others wouldn't overhear. "There are nurses watching him every second. He doesn't need me hanging around.I've barely rejoined the family, and if I don't go to that gala, no one will even remember | exist!"

Having grown up in another household, she had always felt like an outsider since coming back, never quite fitting in with the city's elite.

The Jenkins family might wield power, but one name alone couldn't open every door in those social circles.

More and more, Marilee sensed invisible barriers hemming her in at every turn. That gala wasn't just another party; it might be the only way to finally get noticed.

Evelyn's tone stayed soft, almost soothing. "This isn't some weekend charity ball. Only the top of the top get invited. The Jenkins family was given a single invitation-your brother will be representing us."

Marilee pressed her lips together, fighting back disappointment. "Isn't there any way he can give me his spot?"

A cod pause followed, then Evelyn let out a short,humorless laugh. "You can't be serious. I've already done more than enough for you. From the beginning,I was against you and Roger. I worked nonstop to get Alexia paired off with him so you wouldn't waste your future.I warned you-set your sights higher. You're my only daughter; you should marry into one of the city's four major families, not cling to someone as useless as Roger. But you didn't listen. You fell for him before you even understood the consequences. Do you have any idea how much you've jeopardized your chances for a good marriage? And now you're still hung up on Alexia's ex?"

Marilee protested "But I love Roger-"

Evelyn cut her off coldly. "If you truly loved him, you wouldn't be begging me for a way into the gala. You'd be by his side right now, and that would be enough.But if you really want to move up in this world, you'll have to leave Roger. Otherwise, you're on your own."

Just like that, the call dropped without warning.

Marilee stood in the harsh fluorescent light of the hospital hallway, clutching her phone, resentment flickering behind her downcast eyes.

So be it. If no one was willing to lend a hand,she would carve out her own path.

Hidden within Afoross' most iconic district, the Orchid Estate belonged solely to Waylon. The property stood as a symbol of prestige, blending elegant design with unmatched convenience.

Upstairs, Waylon lounged alone in his study,lost in the pages of a book. A Siamese cat with striking blue eyes weaved between his feet, demanding attention. At first, Waylon paid no mind, but the cat persisted,nuzzling against his leg with growing determination.

Eventually,Waylon gave in, setting the book aside to lift the insistent feline into his lap. As he stroked its fur, the cat settled comfortably, purring in contentment.

A gentle knock broke the quiet.

"Come in," Waylon called out.

Simon Lyons, Waylon's assistant, entered the room."Sir, everything went as you directed. He's still alive-barely,but alive."

The cat shifted in Waylon's arms, blinking up at Simon and letting out a soft meow. Waylon offered a distracted nod, then spoke with a casual air. "Send an invitation to the Braxton family for the Chamber of Commerce's gala."

Simon hesitated. "The Braxton family? After their falling-out with the Gibson family,they lost nearly everything. They're barely scraping by, and rumor has it, they're planning to leave Afoross for good.If they do turn up at the gala, it's unlikely they'll get a warm reception."

Waylon's gaze flickered upward, cool and unwav/ering "Leaving Afoross? Did I give them permission to leave?"

Simon fell silent,uncertain. Waylon leaned back, voice light yet chilling. "Hand the invitation to Matteo Braxton personally. Whether the Braxton family makes it through this or not-that'll be up to him."