Chapter 98: The birthday party
The grand hall buzzed with energy, laughter floating through the air like champagne bubbles. Actors, producers, and influencers mingled with ease, exchanging handshakes.
Reporters hovered nearby, cameras flashing relentlessly to capture each glamorous arrival, though their primary focus was on one person: Gianna. She had promised something spectacular, a night no one would forget, and the anticipation hung thick in the air.
Gianna moved through the crowd like a queen, radiating confidence and charm as she greeted her guests. But her eyes moved to the entrance from time to time. She had been waiting for Dylan eagerly. The main event of the party would start after his arrival, but what made him late? She turned her gaze to the entrance, her fingers absently twisting her bracelet.
He had agreed to come early. Everyone important had arrived, and the party was in full swing—but there was no sign of him. A hint of worry shadowed her features, marring her perfect, composed expression.
Meanwhile, a commotion at the entrance caught everyone’s attention. Gianna’s face darkened the moment she saw Ava stepping inside. Dressed in a striking red gown, Ava commanded attention effortlessly, the photographers’ flashes popping as they captured her entrance.
Gianna’s irritation bubbled up, threatening to crack her poised demeanor. ’What is she doing here?’ Her mood immediately turned sour. She had been under the impression that Ava’s health had deteriorated—that the fire had weakened her enough to keep her away. Yet here she was, defiant and dazzling, turning heads at her party.
’You bitch!’ Gianna clenched her teeth. ’Why didn’t you die?’
Gianna had ensured that Ava couldn’t escape the fire, but fate had saved her somehow. And now, she dared to show up, stealing the attention.
With hurried steps, Gianna strode through the crowd toward Ava. "What a pleasant surprise!" Gianna said with an acidic smile. "I didn’t know you would show up without an invitation."
Ava returned the smile. "Oh, I believe, I’m quite welcome here," she replied smoothly. "You did invite my husband, didn’t you? Naturally, I’d accompany him." She gestured to the entrance.
Gianna’s smile froze in the corners of her lips as she saw Dylan entering.