Ch. 171..180
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 171-Tears and heartbreak were part and parcel of a committed relationship.
Alyssa had shed enough tears for Jasper. It was time to put everything behind her.
The days flew by. In the blink of an eye, it was Newton Beckett’s birthday. The Beckett family accorded the old man’s birthday event with high importance. For the occasion. Javier had splurged on a hundred–million–dollar mansion as a gift which became the venue for the celebration.
The event attendees were notable figures in Solana City’s high society, ranging from business tycoons to Newton’s old friends from the Painter’s Society–a couple of whom were locally famous artists.
Liana and Betty had started their preparation a week ago for the event. They busied themselves with dress selection, facial care, and manicure sessions.
They showed up at the event looking like it was their big day, competing with the other ladies to grab the spotlight.
Unfortunately, the exterior design of the mansion ran in contrast to their flamboyant dresses. They couldn’t find a good spot for photo- taking without looking out of place.
“Betty, what did you get for Grandpa?” Liana was curious.
“I got him an antique vase. I bet he’ll like it because he’s into antique stuff and porcelain Betty fiddled with the pink diamond ring on her finger smugly.
“Oh. Which era is it from?” “It’s a Victorian–era vase.” “That’s pretty recent. I’m not sure if that’s good enough for a birthday gift” Liana blinked innocently at Betty with her carefully drawn eyes.
Liana continued. “You know, Jasper spent four million dollars to win the bid for a set of Georgian–era porcelain drinkware at a charity auction! He’ll gift them to Grandpa. Don’t you think your gift will pale in comparison?” Feeling looked down upon, Betty glowered at Liana. “Of course, the president of Beckett Group has to afford the best birthday gift. He’s representing the company.” “That’s true. My darling is awesome.” Liana gushed and beamed with pride.
“Anyway, I’m Grandpa’s favorite granddaughter. He like anything I get for him.” Betty scrutinized Liana icily. “Enough about me. What did you get for Grandpa?” *I bought him a Georgian–era antique item worth one million. You’ll see later,” Liana teased with an air of mystery.
“One million? Where did this bitch get her money from?” Betty thought. Sophia once said that Liana’s family was on the brink of bankruptcy. Liana appeared to have experienced a status boost from her engagement to Jasper.
Betty seethed at the idea of Liana spending the Becketts‘ money before the marriage. The more she dwelled on it, the more upset she felt.
To irk Liana, she sneered, “Oh, dear Lia, I’m worried for you. Alice is going to show up soon, isn’t she? She’s definitely invited because Grandpa likes her a lot. What are you going to do when you see her? I can’t imagine the awkwardness.” “What’s there to feel awkward about? I’m Jasper’s fiancée! She’s the one who should feel awkward” Liana was triggered.
“Well Alice hasn’t finalized the divorce with Jasper. I know you’re marrying him soon, but she’s still his legal spouse today.” Betty gloated over Liana’s worried reaction, “What if Grandpa introduces her as his daughter–in–law? What are you going to do?” Liana’s face was ashen as she seethed with indignation.
“Don’t worry, Lia.” Betty jumped a little when she heard Sophia’s voice. Sophia approached them, clutching a glass of red wine.
“Aunt Sophia!” Liana quickly held Sophia’s arm and leaned on Sophia’s shoulder.
ttelty Hack never tell cotiered by the cuise between her brazenness ku act like Sophia’s daughter +15 S Schia palted Liana on the shoulder with a dangerous year in het eyes. “Don’t wety Your mon might due here today to get mar back. i wti not have Alice White causing drama today!
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 172-a aniedbag ating the quels as the top battles Duped His attalion be the chance there, Jasperat I anden made the way boos the how uppehed msn instantly her ame the center of allation tons of the Heckell lendly and the Harper family, respecycly.
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Llana nolle ed Landon checking out Allee, She chuckled, “Look at how popular Mr. Hamper is. When are you going to win his heart? I believe you have a longtime crush on him” “What’s the rush? Impalience solves nothing. It’s a maller of time before I make him mine,‘ Belly grumbled with re That’s true, but look at those women eyeing and gushing at him in desperation.
If you don’t lay claim to him soon, you’ll have a lot of Troub dovan Belly ground her teeth upon hearing that. It was her ultimate dream to be Landon’s woman and secure the role of Ms. Beckett.
However, she wanted to dig a hole and hide away!
and anger when she recounted the way Landon had humiliated her at home Still, she would not give up on Landon as she wouldn’t want to be a joke in Llana’s eyes.
Liana turned her attention to Jasper when the two men walked in her direction.
She wanted to go up to him. That was when the guests turned their eyes to the main entrance once more A breathtaking figure appeared under the dazzling sunset and walked into the venue like something out of a painting. It was Alice White, the thorn in Llana’s side, “Alice, you’re outrageously lovely,” Landon mumbled as he gaped at her.
Jasper was stunned by her beauty, His breath quickened as blood rushed through his veins.
“Wow! Who’s that lovely lady in a mermaid dress? She’s got class.” “If I’m not wrong, she is wearing a Villorino dress by Angelo Costa. She must have some connections to get Master Costa to make her dress “The wearer makes the dress. She has showcased the craftsmanship of the Vittorino dress to the fullest extent. She could well be a Vittorino model The guests were full of praise for the stunning beauty. For the event, Alyssa had chosen to wear a high–fashion mermaid dress in white and sky blue with intricate embroidery Her choice of dress was unique and captivating while complementing her surroundings. She had subtly scored a win against Liana and Belly B “Damnt How did that bitch think of wearing a Villoring memaid dress 7 It didn’t even cross my mind! Belly clenched her jaw in anger as Sophia looked upset Sophia had put on an expensive mermaid dress as well, knowing that it would accentuate her figure. Despite her careful planning, she lost out to a country girl, which frustrated her to no end. She finally realized that, given her age, she’d never beat Alice.
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 173-Liana noticed that Jasper had been fixating on Alice ever since Alice showed up.
Fueled by insecurity and rage, she started plotting her moves.
“Alice!” Landon flashed a broad smile and waved at her. She nodded softly and returned the smile while Betty turned green with envy at his enthusiasm.
Just as Alyssa was about to brush shoulders with Jasper, he suddenly reached out to hold her arm. “Where are you going?” “I can’t stay by your side, Mr. Beckett.” She slowly removed her arm from his grasp with a faint smile. Anger flooded his veins. He wanted to say something, only to be interrupted by Sophia, who approached them arm in arm with Liana.
“Alice, I’m so glad you came. I thought you were going to skip the event.” They instantly became the center of attention as the quests speculated the relationship between the stunning beauty and the Beckett. Group.
“Mrs. Beckett, I have no reason to be absent. Grandpa has been looking forward to celebrating his birthday with Jasper and me,” Alyssa countered with a calm smile.
The look in Jasper’s eyes deepened. Meanwhile, the guests cast funny looks at Llana and gossiped.
“Did you remember their explosive marriage announcement? Mr. Beckett hasn’t Issued a statement about it, but everyone in Solana City knows that Ms.
Gardner is basically his fiancée.” “Why does this young lady sound like Mrs. Beckett while Ms. Gardner sounds like some mistress?” “Isn’t that right? You can tell that she comes from wealth from her classy air.
Who exactly is she?” “She’s a finer lady than Ms. Gardner. She’d make a good pair with Mr. Beckett!” Liana’s face fell upon hearing the murmurs. She felt that Alice was cornering her. What Alice did was effectively a declaration of her special relationship with Jasper and Newton Beckett.
“What about me? I’m Jasper’s fiancée!” Liana scowled in silence.
“Alice, we all know that you are close to Newton.” Sophia concealed her calculative moves with a warm smile. “Why didn’t Mr. Taylor of KS Group come with you? Javier sent his secretary to deliver the invitation in person.” The guests were shocked to hear Jonah’s name. As they assumed that the Beckett Group and the Taylor Group were archenemies, no one would expect Jonah to attend Newton Beckett’s birthday event.
A cloud of gloom passed Jasper’s eyes when he realized that Sophia was putting Alice on the spot. He was about to speak up on Alice’s behalf when she replied, unconcerned, “You’re being funny. Why would he attend with me?” “Because he’s your boyfriend.” With a smirk, Sophia went straight to the point, “Let me introduce you to everyone. Ms. White here is Jasper’s ex–wife and the current girlfriend of Jonah Taylor, the president of KS Group.”
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 174-A hush silence hung in the air before the crowd buzzed In excited whispers. The guests had not expected to come across the juicy gossip at the birthday event.
The look in Alyssa’s eyes hardened. Yet, she remained composed. Everything was under her control. Landon ran to her worriedly and panted heavy and hot air all over her. Concerned, he mumbled, “Alice ****
She turned around, her face lighting up with a bewitching smile. “It’s fine.” He was once again smitten by her irresistible smile.
“Sophia, let’s keep the focus on Grandpa’s birthday. Enough with the gossiping, especially not about my private life.” Jasper’s eyes simmered with hostility and fury.
“Forgive me. Jasper, for speaking without thinking.” Faking a guilty expression, Sophia chuckled. “I just wanted to introduce Alice to our guests today who might not know her.
She was once our daughter–in–law after all. Even after the divorce, we can’t have people looking down on her because of her background.” Sophia had craftily presented herself as Alice’s thoughtful mother–in–law. The guests murmured as they cast judgmentl glances at Alyssa.
Meanwhile, Liana and Betty were delighted at the turn of events. Not only did Sophia publicly announce that Alice was no longer with the Beckett Family, but she also affirmed Alice’s relationship with Jonah. She had effectively cut off any chance for Alice to get back with Jasper.
“Thank you for your concern, Madam Sophia.” Alice smiled. “Even if I did not marry Jasper, I would not be looked down upon. It made no sense to look down on me just because I came from a poor family in the countryside.” Jasper glowered at Alyssa in silence, wondering if she truly felt nothing about the status boost she received from their marriage.
Alyssa’s unassuming remark resonated with some of the guests.
“There’s nothing wrong with coming from a poor countryside family. My grandfather was a farmer with a net worth of 10 billion now!” *Madam Sophia was belittling that lady with her remarks.” “She’s not any better. If my memory serves me right, she was a washed–up C– list actress. Even a farmer is better than her!” Sophia scowled in shame as she endured the humiliating comments. It appeared that Alice had defused the identity reveal with ease.
“Bravo! What’s wrong with being a country girl? In fact, I like mysell a humble and down–to–earth woman!” Landon chuckled and whispered into Alyssa’s ear, leaving her speechless at his cheeky remark.
At the same time, Jasper simmered in anger at Landon and Alyssa’s Intimate interactions.
“Jasper!” Liana glided over while lifting the hem of her dress and locked arms with him. “Don’t overthink it. Aunt Sophia only made that statement in Ms.
White’s interest. She needed to make things clear to spare Ms. White any potential embarrassment. Don’t you agree?” Jasper had an unreadable look on his face as he stood stiffly in Liana’s hold. At the same time, the guests expressed different opinions about the situation.
“It seems that Ms. White is in an awkward spot. She shouldn’t have attended the event because she’s divorced. She asked for it.” “Did you miss that part where they said she attended on the Invitation of Mr.
Beckett Senior? It shows that she’s still important to him even after the divorce.” “That might not be true. She looks like she’s here to stir trouble. Who knows?
Maybe she was being snide because she was upset at the divorce with the distinguished Mr. Beckett.” “Alice, ignore the busybodies. They don’t know you at all.” Landon looked fierce, as though he was going to shut them down at any time.
“People are going to talk. It doesn’t bother me.” She smiled and dismissed the gossip with a big heart.
Liana thought she had come out on top when a deep, energetic voice echoed through the air. “Who is putting Alice in a tight spot?”
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 175-Sophia sald, “Lla, you’re his uranddaughter in law Go and give your grandpa a band,” “Grandpa, I’ll help. Llana smiled demurely and walked up to Newton, but the faller Hasher a smile at Jasper and Alyssa instead.
Jasperl Alicel Come over and help me out.” Not only that, Newton rolled his eyes al Javier. “Get out of my way. I’m tired of you. I prefer the company of youngsters. Their splits cheer me upl Javier smiled bitterly and let go of his dad. Lana had stopped in her tracks, Red In embarrassment, the debated if she should stay put or walk up.
Forcing a smile, she silently cursed at Newton, “Old fall Why are you still hanging around?” Alyssa glared at Jasper, who happened to look in her direction. She quickly looked away after they exchanged glances, leaving him with the view of her cold side profile.
A little fazed, he pursed his lips and removed his daze from her. They walked side to side to Newton, Everyone exchanged looks, feeling amused by Newton’s treatment of Llana, Sophia was filled with rage, as Newton’s action was a slap to her face apart from a humillation to Llana.
Despite that, she had to keep a smile on her face. After all, the dying old man remained the most powerful figure in the Beckett Group. Newton was a shareholder, and his words carried weight in the company. She dared not act out in front of him.
“Grandpa, you’re looking better. Your health bas Improved. This is great.” Alyssa held Newton affectionately with a genuine smile on her lace.
“That’s because I’m happy to see you. If I’m in a good mood, my health gets better!” Newton checked her out with kind eyes and nodded in Satisfaction.
“Lovely! I have great taste Indeed. You look wonderful in this Vittorino dress I bought you. Better than those that show too much skin, don’t you think?” Jasper was shocked to learn that it was Newton who bought the dress for Alice.
The guests finally saw the situation for what it was, and they regarded Llana differently. It turned out that Newton had been favoring Alice and dismissing Liana.
Despite the divorce between Alice and Jasper, Newlon only showed interest in Alice, not Liana.
Liana lelt pressured under the scrutiny. Shame was eating away at her.
“Dad, since everyone’s here, let’s take a family photo.” Knowing that Newton loved photo–taking, Sophia dragged the stiff Liana along and politely requested Alyssa, “Alice, do you mind taking the photo for us?” 1 “Of course, I don’t mind.” Alyssa smiled graciously.
“More than a guest, she’s family! You don’t leave family out of family photos!
Alice, here! Stand beside me.” Newton threw Sophia a scornful gaze. “I will take offense at anyone who makes Alice uncomfortable today.” Sophia bit her lips and sent a look of help to Javier. Javier felt sorry to see his beloved wife being rebuked publicly, and so advised Newton in a hushed voice, “Dad, I know you like Allice, but she and Jasper are divorced. It’s not right to include her in our family photo.” “She’s divorced. So what?” Newton furrowed his brows angrily. “I’ll adopt her as my granddaughter if need be! She is forever a Beckett!” Alyssa was strongly touched by Newton defending her. Tears welled up in her eyes. Newton was the reason she couldn’t bring herself to cut all ties with the Becketts–she’d miss him sorely.
Liana was consumed by rage and almost passed out from the Intensity of her emotions. Everyone else was surprised by Alice who displayed such a charm apart from her beauty that Newton Beckett doted on her.
“Grandpa.” Jasper felt uneasy at the idea that Newton wanted to adopt Alice as his granddaughter. “Stop making it awkward for Alice. She might not be on board with your good intentions.” “Hmph! From the looks of it, you’re the one who’s against the Idea, not her.” Newton gave Jasper a side–eye. “Look at that frustration on your face after I brought it up! It’s a mood dampener!” Alyssa was dumbfounded by the exchange. Jasper’s face hardened–as Newton’s grandson, he had been sidelined in favor of Alice.
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 176-The guests turned toward the voice and were stunned by who they saw.
Jonah Taylor smilingly wandered into the main hall accompanied by Sean.
Alyssa’s eyes lit up with joy. She almost blurted out his name aloud.
Jasper’s heart almost stopped at the sight of Jonah. His frosty eyes looked even more threatening at that moment. Alyssa seemed to have felt the change in him, as though she was standing right beside a walking iceberg.
She reflexively looked at Jasper and found him looking glum. A frightening storm was brewing in her eyes.
“Please excuse me for running late,” Jonah said to Newton politely. He showed up in a special outfit that day, looking outstanding and gentlemanly in a high– neck top with a dark suit.
The ladies around him swooned at Jonah, thinking of marrying him or Jasper in their dreams. 1 “It’s not a problem. I am glad you’re here.” Newton smiled warmly at Jonah and treated him no differently, even though Jonah was Winston’s son.
Alyssa felt relieved at Newton’s reaction, for she initially thought that he’d mind Jonah’s presence.
“Alice, come over,” Jonah said as he reached out for Alyssa.
Sophia and Liana exchanged a look and smiled deviously. They successfully made Jonah show up because they wanted to see him fighting with Jasper over Alyssa. That would tarnish Alyssa’s reputation as well as expose her as an easy woman to Newton. They thought they could kill two birds with one stone.
“Sure.” To their surprise, Alyssa happily went up to Jonah without hesitation.
On the other hand, Landon was dying of jealousy when his crush went back to her lover. He wondered if that was what it felt like to be a kept man. It was too torturous for him.
Jasper’s body jolted in shock as his eyes widened. He raised his arm a little and tightened his fists, not knowing exactly what he was grasping at. He sensed a bitter taste in his mouth.
“Oh? Since when did you know Mr. Jonah? The two of you seem close too.” Newton was baffled.
“Dad, you probably haven’t heard about it. Alice is now his- Sophia was about to add fuel to the fire when Jonah cut her off.
He replied, “Mr. Beckett Senior, thank you for taking good care of Alice in the last three years. She often talks about you and thinks of you as family. I will always remember your kindness to her.” Everyone was shocked when Jonah wrapped an arm around Alyssa’s waist. The two looked like the main couple from a movie.
Jasper clenched his fists as fury twisted inside of him.
“Sadly, Alice will stay with me. She’ll be under the Taylor family’s care. She might not be part of the Beckett family anymore, but she will always think fondly of you.” Jonah smiled softly. “You will always be her beloved grandpa.” No one had anything to say about his impeccable manners.
“Ah…” Newton came to a realization
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 177-Dad, Alice is in a relationship with Mr. Jonah Javier whispered in a low voleo “Please stop hooking her up with Insper because she’s dating someone new.
You can’t force a relationship” “That’s right. Sophia jumped on the train. Seeing the way Mr. Jonaly immediately picked her up after she tell our family, you could tell that their fling started way back.” “Way back?” Newton glared.
“Yes. How else would their relationship grow this last? That’s why I told you II was useless to worry about Jasper and her. A loveless marriage is meaningless.
They might as well break free and find their happiness,” “So, you don’t have to worry about Alice. She’s joining the Taylor Family they’re as good as we are,” Sophia muttered sollly with hidden intention. She wanted to shatter Newton’s Impression of Alice as a prim and proper lady.
Alyssa pursed her lips and stared at her feet. She had long anticipated the arrival of this day, and she was fully prepared to face Newton’s resentment.
“Grandpa, please do not blame Alice,” Jasper surprisingly stood up for her and shot her a heavy look. “She does not owe me anything at all. I have nothing but good wishes for her relationship with Mr. Jonah.” Still, he was reluctant to offer his well wishes, Alyssa’s eyes wavered in shock. She did not recall the arrogant Jasper ever calling her by her name. She would have been over the moon for that occasion if they were still married, but all she could do was smirk at his Jarring remark.
“Of course, you can do nothing except wish her well. You couldn’t win her back even if I asked you to.” Hulling and pulling, Newton hit Jasper twice to express his fury. “How can I blame her for dating another man? It’s all your fault. You do not deserve a nice young lady like Alice as your wife!” 1 Newton’s statement was Jaw–dropping. The expression on Sophia and Liana’s laces crumbled. They finally understood that it was impossible to start a drama to provoke Newton, for the old man was hopelessly on Alice’s side.
After being reprimanded, a frustrated Jasper said flatly. “I’m glad you’re not upset with her.” “Why would I be? I can’t dote on her enough! Alice, Mr. Jonah, please come up.” Jonah and Alyssa exchanged looks before approaching Newton. Alyssa pursed her lips with a pitiful expression. “Grandpa, I’m sorry for keeping it a secret from you.” “It’s not a big deal. I am not concerned about that. All I want is for you to be happy.” He looked at Alyssa affectionately before turning to Jonah with a serious look.
Then, he said, “Mr. Jonah, you are an Important man who comes from a family full of sisters. Do promise you’ll look after Alice and keep her from trouble at home. If you don’t, I will be knocking at your door for Justice.” Jonah cast an amused look at his little sister as he recalled how she had ridden Silas like a pony and scribbled all over Axel’s face in their childhood. He chortled and sald. “Sure, I promise.” Newton might be old, but he was not senile. Seeing the love in Jonah’s eyes, he sighed gladly and said with regret, “Mr. Jonah, I’ll entrust Alice to you. I hope you give her what my grandson falled to offer her. Please show her love.” The color drained from Jasper’s face at that moment, as though he was struck by lightning.
“I will,” Jonah replied gently with a determined look in his eyes. With a sharp Inhale, Jasper stared hard at Alice, the woman who was once his wife, now standing beside Jonah.
Feeling like an empty shell, he fought back tears
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 178-Jass test as it he was crushed by the weight of shame. At the same time, Landon bitterly racked his brains for a counteroffensive against Feing a soare pare in her heart Abyssa mumbled, “Grandpa” 200, Es your bartas. Let’s put aside the upsetting talk.” Javier went up to Newton and smiled. “Why don’t we look at the gifts your grandchigen get you “We’ll have dinner afterward so we don’t keep the guests waiting.” right, it’s present time Newton rubbed his hands adorably like a child.
BISBAL DE guess who were close to the Becketts presented their gifts to Newton, who cheerfully received each item and thanked his guess “Ganged” Sting. Landon stood in front of Newton and declared, “I’m close to Jasper. His grandpa is mine. May you be blessed with good health and happiness” “Thank you” Newton was all smiles.
“Ganca, happy birthday! Betty shuffled over with a shy smile and attempted to stand beside Landon. “I know you’re into antiques. This is my gift for your She caliberately leaned toward Landon in an effort to close her distance from him. Too bad Landon refused to pay attention to her and dooged her move, causing her to almost lose her balance.
How humiliatirs Some quests were quietly laughing at her. Overcome with embarrassment, she silently cursed them out.
Before long, a maid brought in the Victorian–era vase by Betty. Newton beamed and nodded. “Great! Thank you, Betty!” Betty couldn’t help but gloat.
“This is Ms. Lauren’s gift for you. Do check it out.” Ben brought out a painting.
“On is that from Lauren? Show me!” Newton looked surprised by the painting before laughing merrily. “Hahaha! Is this her portrait of me? Splendid! Such a talented girl!” Everyone crowded around Newton to check out the painting that made him laugh. Within seconds, their attention had shifted from Betty to Lauren’s painting.
Lauren had painted a portrait of Newton laughing out loud in his usual outfit.
the bottom of the painting. It read, “Dear Grandpa, smile always. From Lauren.” “Look at Lauren’s painting. Does it resemble me? She’s talented in art!” Newton proudly showed off Lauren.
*Laurie–Uhm, Lauren is great at painting. She is almost like a professional artist!” Landon smiled at the thought of the adorable Lauren.
The smile froze on Betty’s face as she burned in jealousy.
“Her lines might be a little unpolished, but give her some time, and she’ll be successful in the industry.“Jasper nodded quietly.
“Grandpa, Lauren is talented in art. It’s always been her wish to enroll in an art college to study the subject.” Alyssa grabbed the opportunity to speak on behalf of Lauren.
She continued, “She must have great potential if Jasper compliments her–you know he rarely sings praises. She should give it a try. I bet we will have a famous artist in the family in five years.” Jasper frowned at her words, which felt like a swipe at him. Did he never compliment the others? He wondered if he was as harsh as she made him sound.
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 179-“You’re right Dad.” Javier and Sophia could only agree with Newton with apologetic smiles.
Tam so happy with this gift Where’s Lauren? I want to give her a hug!” Newton beamed.
“Ms. Lauren says she won’t join us because she’s sick. She’ll meet you in person later,” Ben reported.
S tarted a bidding war with me and made me buy the painting. How could you do this to me?” Jasper looked glum as he shot icy glares at Alyssa.
“I made you buy it? When did I do that? Alyssa’s eyes glimmered, looking as though she was in shock.
Jonah was the first to stand up for Alyssa. He snickered. “Ms. Gardner, the auction is open to the public. It was a fair game, Alice could not have forced you to buy the painting against your will. Don’t you think it was your personal decision?” “She knew I wanted the painting. That’s why she started the bidding war with me. Whenever I raised my paddle, she’d follow suit. This continued until the price was 900 thousand from the starting price of 100 thousand.
“She suddenly gave up after I bid a million for the painting. Wasn’t she misleading me into buying a counterfeit at a high price? Liana.
igh, that child — Newton lamented. “Ben, frame the painting and put it up in my study. That way, I can look at it whenever I feel like it.” Ben nodded and carefully put the painting away. Betty was wordless with anger when she observed Newton’s interest and care for Lauren’s gift.
Betty thought that Lauren, who never had much allowance, might humiliate herself by purchasing a miserly gift. To her dismay, Lauren decided to be creative by presenting a handmade gift.
In the end, the vase that Betty splurged hundreds of thousands on was overshadowed by a shabby painting of Lauren’s!
“Oh Lauren just wait and see. You’re dead meat!” Betty thought.
On the other hand, Liana was pacing the corridor. She had sent someone for Sophia. Sophia showed up, arms crossed on her chest and looking sulien.
“Aunt Sophia, what do we do?” Liana almost tore her hair out. “Our little trick does not change Grandpa’s perception of Alice. Not only that, they’ve gotten closer because of it!” “That was unexpected. The older he gets, the weirder he acts. He’s ridiculous.” Sophia squinted her eyes dangerously and whispered, “Lia, It looks like it’s time to put plan B in action today.” “Right now?” Liana gritted her teeth with a malicious gleam in her eyes.
“No. We need to wait.” Sophia patted Liana on the shoulder and smirked.“Another VIP is showing up soon. I have a way to make Alice the brunt of jokes and ruin her reputation!” More gifts were presented to Newton. The Georgian–era drinkware that Jasper bought for Newton was the event’s climax. Friends of Newton, who were antique experts, were eager to check out the beauty of the antique drinkware.
Worried that the old fellows might break the valuable gift, Newton hugged the box tightly and pouted. “No one’s touching the gift from my grandson.” Everyone guffawed at his antics, including Alyssa, who covered her mouth and chuckled.
“Grandpa this drinkware was donated by Mrs. Taylor of the KS Group to the charity auction. I bid for it as it was a rare item. I’m glad that you like it” Jasper felt obliged to explain the gift’s background because Jonah was also at the event.
“Oh! This must be one of the items in Mr. Taylor’s personal collection. He’s the top collector in Solana City when it comes to antiques.” Newton sighed as he caressed the box.
“Dad would love it if he heard that you treasure an item from his collection,” Jonah chimed in warmly.
Jonah was a natural peacemaker, for he was able to graciously resolve any conflict with his calm composure and humble attitude.
“Grandpa, here’s my gift for you!” Liana butted in with a cloying voice. Everyone turned to her with a little disdain. Those who were disceming could tell that Newton disliked her. Her road to marrying Jasper might not be smooth sailing.
“Dad. Lia spent a lot of effort on your gift. After she heard you liked old paintings, she bid on a Georgian–era painting for your birthday.” Javier attempted to pave the way for Liana, especially because she was Sophia’s niece.
“Oh? A genuine painting from the Georgian era?” Newton’s eyes lit up in excitement.
Liana had someone bring in the framed painting in white gloves. The staff carefully displayed the painting, which the antique collectors crowded around for a look at.
PAS ANTAA led to keep the site on her fare. Thought this hom the Harpers‘ aur Hon house. It can’t be a
Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 180-f“That’s ridiculous!” Liana struggled to keep the smile on her face. “I bought this from the Harpers‘ auction house. It can’t be a counterfeit?
After she dragged the Harpers into the mess, Landon snickered. “Ms. Gardner, you are probably unfamiliar with the industry because you haven’t been involved with auctions. Parry’s Auction of the Harper Group Is the biggest auction house in the nation, “The items we take in have undergone stringent inspection and verification. It Is Impossible to buy counterfeits from us. It’s one thing to be ignorant; it’s another thing to ruin my family’s reputation.” The look in Jasper’s eyes deepened. He recalled Alice’s smirk when she indirectly led Liana to buy the replica at ten times the starting price at the charity auction. Could she have foreseen that Llana would buy the painting for Newton?
Was it all a coincidence or a trap from the start?
“Ms. Gardner, a counterfeit item is different from a replica,” an expert voiced out his opinion to clear the name of the Harpers. “Some works of paintings are replicas but considered antique. It is hard for a replica to look the same as the original. A top–grade replica can fetch a high price.” The expert continued, “However, the replica you bought is a little inferior. If not, I wouldn’t have been able to tell it apart right away.” “It can’t be a replica! I bought it for a million from Parry’s Auction!” Liana blurted out in the heat of the moment.
How could she have bought a counterfeit with one million? She must have been wrong in the head. The people around chuckled at her confession, including Betty, who had to cover her mouth to stop herself from laughing loudly.
Oh, how the tables had turned!
“A million? Gosh, this painting is worth at most 100 thousand. I could only say that you have contributed a lot to charity with that winning bid price!” Liana’s mind went blank. Even Sophia suffered from second–hand embarrassment and looked away, refusing to stand up for her loser niece.
“Let the matter rest. Regardless of the price, Ms. Gardner bought it with good intentions.” Newton might not have approved of Liana, but he would not fuss over the authenticity of a painting. He said coolly, “Ben, please take the painting.” “Alice White, what do you have against me? Why would you do this to me?” Ashamed, Liana directed a pointed question at Alice. She finally broke down from the humiliation she had received since the beginning of the event.
Startled, everyone turned to Alice. She merely blinked innocently. “Ms. Gardner, what makes you say that? I have no clue what you’re talking about.” Jonah and Landon were astonished by the interaction between the two ladies.
Did Alice outplay Liana by being a bigger bitch?
“It’s you who tricked me! I wouldn’t have bought a counterfeit item with a million!
It’s all because of you!” Liana pointed at Alice’s face, her voice hoarse from the anger.
Liana continued, “I might not be able to tell the art apart, but you must have known it was a counterfeit! You even started a bidding war with me and made me buy the painting. How could you do this to me?” Jasper looked glum as he shot icy glares at Alyssa.
“I made you buy it? When did I do that?” Alyssa’s eyes glimmered, looking as though she was in shock.
Jonah was the first to stand up for Alyssa. He snickered. “Ms. Gardner, the auction is open to the public. It was a fair game. Alice could not have forced you to buy the painting against your will. Don’t you think it was your personal decision?” “She knew I wanted the painting. That’s why she started the bidding war with me. Whenever I raised my paddle, she’d follow suit. This continued until the price was 900 thousand from the starting price of 100 thousand