Chapter 46: Disposable Wife
That night the dinner party was in full swing, the grand ballroom abuzz with chatter and laughter from invited guests. Lyse, dressed in a stunning silver mermaid gown, moved gracefully through the crowd, her hand resting lightly on Levi’s arm.
Together they made a very beautiful couple and a lot of the guests could not take their eyes off them but she in particular was the center of attention, the new Mrs. Van Doren.
Everyone wanted to know all about her and she was thankful for Levi’s presence by her side. He fielded the questions and led her away when people probed too much.
As they mingled with the guests, Lyse noticed that she did not see any of the girls from earlier at the coffee shop and she wondered if Laurie had something to do with that. She could have taken them on but she was glad that she did not have to deal with some catty women who were jealous.
However, she could not shake the feeling that she was being watched. She glanced around the room, but could not pinpoint the source of her unease. Then, her eyes fell upon a blonde woman standing by the drinks table. She was tall, with striking features and a confident air.
As Lyse wondered what the woman wanted, she approached them with a forced smile. "Levi, darling," she purred, her gaze lingering on Lyse. "You look absolutely stunning. And I must say, your taste just keeps improving."
"Thank you Anya." Levi said then pulled Lyse closer and Lyse saw as Anya’s eyes dropped to Lyse’s waist where Levi’s arm rested territorially. "This is my wife Lyse."
Anya, looked up at Lyse with a forced smile and her tone condescending. "Well, well, well," she drawled. "If it isn’t the new Mrs. Van Doren. You’re quite a catch, Levi."
Lyse maintained her composure, offered a polite smile. "Thank you, Anya. It is a pleasure to meet you."