Chapter 53: The Price of Survival
Lawrence completely ignored Maxwell when he stormed out of the room. He shamelessly stepped inside and tried to identify the pale girl on the couch. When he failed, he spoke sweetly, "Hello, I’m Lawrence Ashford, Damien’s uncle." He stressed their relationship, "And you, my dear?" He extended his hand.
Aveline glanced at Damien as she stood, "Hello, Mr. Ashford, I’m Aveline Laurent. Damien’s wife." She again looked at Damien, pretending to be hesitant before shaking Lawrence’s hand.
"Aveline Laurent!" Lawrence said it under his breath, and then his eyes widened in disbelief, "The Laurents!?" He struggled to believe it, "Are you the daughter of Henry Laurent?" He knew Damien wouldn’t marry just anybody.
Aveline nodded, blinking as if confused, "Yes, my father is chairman of Laurent Industries." She clarified for him.
Lawrence stepped back in surprise. He turned to Damien, unbothered by his glare. "You’ve won the jackpot, Damien." He laughed, "I was right, that little toy of yours was just a plaything." He immediately tried to ruin the couple.
Aveline: "..."
She understood Lawrence was aware of Vivienne and Damien. Yet, she couldn’t believe he was so venomous to his nephew.
Damien didn’t wait. He grabbed Lawrence’s arm and dragged him towards the door. Because asking politely wouldn’t work with that man.
Lawrence still laughed, glancing at Aveline, "Ms. Laurent, don’t be shocked, we’re like friends..." He stumbled when Damien shoved him out and slammed the door.
When Damien turned back, he saw Aveline recoil as if he might throw her out too. Seeing her so guarded, he softened his voice, "Don’t take Lawrence Ashford’s words seriously. He enjoys it when we suffer."
Aveline nodded like she believed every word out of his mouth. "I understand." Then she hesitated, "Damien, your father..."