Chapter 135

The Grand Hyatt glittered with lights as glasses clinked in celebration. The younger generation had naturally divided into distinct social circles.

Oliver Valentine, Ethan Sullivan, and Xander Quincy occupied their own corner, an invisible barrier keeping others at bay.

Isabella Valentine held court at the center of another group, while Beatrice Quincy commanded her own flock of admirers.

Only Bianca Fairchild remained curled in the shadows, isolated.

Evelyn Laurent stood alone as well—though no one dared approach her.

She savored the solitude, leisurely indulging in an exquisite strawberry cake. The rich cream melted on her tongue, tempting her to take another slice.

Ethan's gaze cut through the crowd, discreetly tracking her every move.

Each delicate bite, each sip of wine—he memorized them all.

So absorbed was he that his own glass remained forgotten in his hand.

Clink.

Xander slammed his drink down, glaring. "If you like her, go after her. What kind of man just watches from the shadows?"

Ethan withdrew his attention. "You wouldn't understand."

"Wouldn't I?" Xander scoffed, loosening his tie with irritation. "Then enlighten me. What do you understand?"

Alcohol burned through him, fueling his frustration. "If you can't even confess, does it even count as love?"

Ethan's eyes darkened. "She doesn't care."

Evelyn had never needed his affection.

He knew exactly where he stood in her heart.

That girl who'd survived alone for over a decade had built walls no one could breach.

Victoria Langley and the others had barely managed to crack them open.

And him? He was just a passerby in her life.

The thought made Ethan throw back his drink in one sharp motion.

Xander faltered, momentarily speechless.

"Brother, why are you drinking so much?"

A sweet voice interrupted them.

Beatrice glided over in a violet mermaid gown, her skin luminous under the lights.

Xander's expression softened slightly at the sight of his sister. "Finished your shoot?"

"Came straight after wrapping." She smiled gracefully, every inch the Oscar-winning actress. "How could I miss Mr. Sullivan's birthday celebration?"

Xander nodded and reached for another glass.

"Brother." Beatrice caught his wrist. "Father will be furious if you keep this up."

His fingers stilled, conflict flashing in his eyes—but he ultimately set the glass down.

Beatrice glanced around casually. "Where's Bianca? Mother said she arrived."

At the name, Xander's face froze.