Ch. 31..35: Trapped in a Secret Marriage with a Dangerous Billionaire Chapter 31-35

Chapter 31: An Alternative measure

Xander had lunch with Aurora at a private restaurant and when they had finished eating, she had another question for him.

"Why did you threaten to kill my best friend?" she asked, unable to take her mind off it.

The fact that she now knew who he was, didn’t mean the memories of his mayhem would be suddenly wiped off.

"Sweetheart, come on! I did that just so you could listen to me. I was afraid you would blow my cover by exposing matters that happened under my roof to her," Xander explained. "I will never think about killing your best friend unless she poses a threat to you or I receive orders from the higher-ups."

Aurora didn’t like the sound of that and quickly said, "Xander, Abby has been my friend for fifteen years. She is a popular actress in the entertainment industry. What kind of harm can she pose?"

"You never can tell," he said, looking away from her. "I don’t trust outsiders without running a background check on them, and I’m going to do that to your friend so I can be at ease if you really want me to trust her."

"Don’t you dare do that!" Aurora warned, not wanting to dwell on the fact he had done the same to her. "My best friend is not some kind of criminal for you to scrutinize. And just so you know, I still haven’t forgiven you for everything you put me through."

Aurora glared at Xander and picked up her bag to leave. Left with no choice, he wiped his lips with the napkin and quickly followed after her.

---

When the couple arrived home, Aurora went up to the master bedroom while Xander left for his study. And as soon as he sat behind his desk, he picked up his phone and contacted Asher.

After exchanging their normal brotherly pleasantries, he made a request. "Can you help me run a background check on someone?"

Asher found his demand unusual and directly asked, "What happened to the people under you?"

"Something happened, so I want you to take it on," he explained.

There was a pause from the other end before Asher spoke into the phone, "Whose information do you want?"

"Abigail Miller," Xander replied.

"Lex, can I ask you not to involve me with that annoying woman?" Asher pleaded with a tinge of annoyance in his tone. There was only one thing holding him back from speaking out of turn; his morals.

"Unfortunately, I can’t. My wife forbade me from doing that. We had a fight." Xander narrated the events from Friday evening until the current moment. "She doesn’t trust me anymore and she’s yet to forgive me."

A hearty chuckle erupted from Asher’s end. It was so funny learning that his best friend got into trouble with his wife, and it was even more hilarious hearing his frustrated tone.

"I would say you deserve every treatment you are receiving. You should have been gentle with her knowing how innocent she is. That serves you right!"

Xander’s brows dipped as Asher’s hysterical laughter reached his ears again. He would have retaliated if he wasn’t asking for help as he didn’t find his situation funny.

"It’s not my fault, man. She drove me crazy. I never knew she was this stubborn. I swear that I will be careful with her from now on."

Asher scoffed. "I don’t think you are ready to be forgiven. Your wife asked you not to run a background check on her best friend and you still want to defile her orders?"

"That’s why I’m sending you so I don’t defile her orders," Xander said through gritted teeth. "You only need to tell me if Abigail Miller is a threat or not."

Asher let out a deep sigh into the phone. "I don’t know man. I really don’t want to be involved with this woman. But I will see what I can do and try to get back to you as soon as possible."

"Thanks, brother." Xander sighed in relief. "I want to have one less problem."

"You just don’t know when to relax," Asher said. Xander commented on that before reminding him about Aurora’s ’Fruit Punch Champagne’ launch.

"I trust that you will only bring reputable people with you. And don’t be late."

---

At the other end, Olivia had been trying dresses for the past twenty minutes but didn’t seem satisfied even with her room in a total mess.

Just then, Stella stepped in with a deep frown on her face. Seeing her countenance through the mirror, Olivia turned around. "Mum, were you able to reach him?"

Stella glanced at the servants in the room and sent them out. As soon as the door shut, she turned to Olivia. "His secretary said he won’t be available to attend your champagne launch tomorrow, but he will send a representative in his place."

"Mum, I thought you already had this Aurora’s father under your grasp?" Olivia asked, looking more annoyed than ever. "His presence will boost my champagne sales. Why can’t you get him to come instead of sending someone?"

"Do you think he is an ordinary man you can drag around after recently establishing a connection with him?" Stella glared at her. "Please don’t make me furious."

Olivia’s heart sank after her hopes were dashed. She wanted to argue a little more, but seeing how pissed her mother was at the situation, she became a little mindful.

"What about Dad?" she asked. "Has he agreed to come after complaining about the night party?"

Stella found a space on her bed and sat down before replying, "He has no choice. I told him he couldn’t attend Aurora’s champagne launch if he wasn’t present at yours. So, he has to balance the equation."

---

While both Aurora and Olivia were preparing for their events separately, the popular gossip blog released a post.

"BOMBSHELL EXCLUSIVE!

The Vicious Battle for Vintage Cellar’s Throne Has Begun!

As Vintage Cellar prepares to unleash two revolutionary products - Aurora’s ’Fruit Punch Champagne’ and Olivia’s ’Spraying Champagne’ - the stakes have never been higher. Adam Swift, the puppet master, holds the reins, ready to crown his successor based on which product reigns supreme.

But what drives Adam’s Machiavellian tactics? Is it greed, power, or something far more sinister?

The drama has just begun. Who will emerge victorious?

Meanwhile, Wing City’s infamous playboy, Victor, awakened from his coma and moved to a private recovery home. Will he emerge transformed after a second chance at life or revert to his abominable ways?

Follow us for more juicy exclusive insider scoops."

Chapter 32: Olivia’s Request

MONDAY.

Aurora left for work around 7 AM to wrap things up with her team as her Champagne launch would take place the following day.

They had a last-minute review of their entire plan before going to the venue. The interior decorations were set along with the table and chairs, only the guests’ seating arrangement was left.

Aurora had to cross-check the last part and stayed until every guest’s name was put on the table before doing a security check.

"Send a reminder mail to our guests by 5 AM tomorrow about the event in the evening," Aurora instructed shortly before leaving.

Aurora arrived home at 1 PM to find Xander waiting for her in the garden. He had invited her to join him for lunch if she returned on time. She changed quickly and joined him. As she approached, Xander stood up and pulled out a chair to his right.

Aurora hesitated briefly between the offered seat and the one across from him before accepting his gesture. She wasn’t in the mood for another confrontation, her focus fixed on her upcoming event.

"How was your day?" Xander asked, smiling as he took his seat.

"Stressful but eventful," Aurora replied, her tone detached.

Xander didn’t press, content that she had accepted his gesture. It was progress enough.

"Would you like some red wine?" Xander offered, holding up the bottle.

"No, thank you," Aurora replied, picking some apple slices from the plate instead. "I’m saving myself for the lots of champagne tomorrow." Xander nodded, setting the bottle aside.

"I visited my parents with the champagne you gifted them," he said. "They loved it."

Aurora’s face brightened almost immediately. "That’s wonderful! I’m glad they liked it."

Xander smiled. "They deeply appreciated your effort and thoughtfulness and extended their regards. Disappointedly, my mother had a mishap so they can’t make it to your event."

Aurora’s eyes widened in concern. "What happened? Is she alright?"

"She sprained her ankle after missing a step," Xander explained. "Fortunately, it’s only a minor setback – she will fully recover in a week or two."

Aurora exhaled in relief. "Thank God."

A few minutes passed and Xander decided to break the other news. "I told them I was married."

Aurora’s eyes widened. She choked on the apple, erupting into a violent coughing fit. Xander swiftly handed her a glass of water, which she gulped down, her face flushing crimson.

As she regained composure, Xander gently dabbed the apple juice splatters from her face and arms with a napkin. "My apologies," he said.

Aurora’s curiosity got the better of her. "Why did you tell them? Did you reveal anything about me?" She was taken aback, recalling Xander’s insistence on keeping their marriage secret for three months.

She wondered what made him change his mind.

Xander understood her concern. "They were planning to set me up on blind dates. I had to intervene. I assured them I was taken, but kept you out of it. They do want to meet you next time I visit, though."

Aurora nodded, relieved she had time to prepare. Unbeknownst to her, she had already committed to seeing their marriage through in her heart despite her anger towards him.

At least, Xander wasn’t the gangster she initially feared.

After lunch with Xander, Aurora returned to the master bedroom to make some calls before Nene came to meet her.

"Can I talk to you for a minute if you don’t mind?" Nene asked politely as soon as she stepped in and shut the door.

Aurora lifted a curious brow, closing her laptop and turning her attention to her. "Yes. Please, go ahead."

Nene cleared her throat, took a deep breath, and continued, "I know you’re still upset with Mr. Scott, and no one expects you to forgive him immediately. However, consider the bigger picture – winning. Use his resources to your advantage; buy what you need and let him foot the bill."

Aurora’s confusion deepened, prompting Nene to elaborate. "Mr. Scott invested significant time and resources selecting the finest items for you. If I may suggest, utilize what he’s arranged for the launch party. Accepting his gifts doesn’t obligate you to tolerate his behaviour. You’re simply prioritizing your own interests."

Aurora listened intently, her silence stretching out as she weighed Nene’s words. She deliberately set aside her emotions, determined to make a clear-headed decision.

On the other hand, Nene took her silence for anger and quickly apologized, "Forgive me if I overstepped. I only want what’s best for you. I will take—."

"You are right," Aurora Aurora’s calm response cut her off mid-sentence. "I will only make decisions beneficial to me, and I don’t have to put up with anyone’s bad behaviour. Come get me in two hours to check out that room again."

A small smile gradually appeared on Nene’s lips. "I will take my leave then."

---

Olivia’s ’Spraying Champagne’ cruise launch party kicked off around 8 PM with many influencers and popular socialites in attendance.

Her group of friends came ready to party, dancing to the tune of the music and already spraying a few bottles of champagne.

Stella smiled from ear to ear as she watched everyone enjoying the party, but when she glanced at Adam and saw his gloomy look, she tapped his arm.

"Have you forgotten how to smile? You look like you don’t want to be here."

"I’m glad you are just realizing it." Adam almost rolled his eyes.

He really hated late-night parties but had no choice but to attend. The media already saw him as a master-mind planner who put his two daughters against each other for some devious benefit.

Although he didn’t know where they got that wild idea, he didn’t want to harm his image anymore.

Stella almost rolled her eyes at him. She wanted to confront him, but Olivia brought Owen with her to their stand. Immediately the corners of her lips curved into a smile.

After exchanging pleasantries, Stella asked Owen, "You didn’t come with your uncle?"

"He has a quiet nature and doesn’t fancy this type of event," he explained.

Just then, Adam said to him, "I got a call from your father yesterday regarding a family dinner this weekend."

As soon as Adam revealed that, Olivia’s gaze widened in utter shock. Out of joy, she turned to embrace Owen without minding her parents’ presence.

"Thank you!" she screamed. Finally, his family have accepted her. Her joy knew no bounds now.

Stella was all smiles as well. Finally, they would be rid of the embarrassment.

A while later, Olivia was alone with her mother, watching the guests party hard with lasting smiles on their faces.

"Mum, can you disrupt Aurora’s launch party tomorrow?" Olivia requested. "I don’t want her to have a more successful event than me."

 

Chapter 33: A Sweet Sinister Smile

Stella held Olivia’s gaze for a moment before taking her hand, a reassuring smile slowly spreading across her face.

"Your father is going to guess we are behind it and take it out on us but who cares? He has to bring the evidence if he wants to accuse us."

Instantly, the smile reached Olivia’s eyes. "Thank you, Mum. You are the best!" she praised, immediately enveloping her in a hug.

"Now, go back to your party and keep your guests entertained." Stella patted her on the back twice and pushed her away gently.

Feeling the success of her own party, Olivia was unable to wait until the end before going to meet her father.

She sat next to him and asked, "Dad, what do you think about my launch party?"

Adam withdrew his gaze from the people partying and turned to her. "It’s too early to know what I think."

He had looked around the cruise ship and noticed that many people of his age didn’t attend the launch. And those who did were sitting at a place like him because they couldn’t relate to the youngster’s kind of fun.

Olivia thought he was just being stingy with his compliments and left him alone. She joined her friends in the spraying champagne fun while dancing to the tune of the music.

At the other end, Xander was worried about something and called Nene into his study after dinner. He wasn’t satisfied even though he learned that Aurora had finally agreed to use the outfit he arranged for her launch party.

Earning her forgiveness was more important, so he employed Nene’s help.

"I deeply offended my wife. How do I apologize to her?" he inquired, his brows furrowed in concern. "Should I buy her a villa or gift her an island to build a vacation home?"

Nene released a deep sigh. "Mr. Scott, although I have known Mrs. Scott for a short while, I am sure luxury doesn’t move her. She comes from Money. What kind of wealth has she not seen?"

"Mine," Xander answered with a serious expression on his face.

Nene’s lips twitched. Even though he was right, she felt that this wasn’t the time to boast about it.

"Mr. Scott, you still don’t understand," she sighed.

"Then what can move her?" he asked genuinely.

"Sincerity," Nene revealed. "Little gestures and not grand ones move Mrs. Scott. If you are not ready to be sincere in your actions, I will advise that you don’t think about apologizing otherwise you will worsen your situation. You might end up getting cursed at or killed as she is so mad at you "

Xander patiently listened to everything she said and slowly leaned out of his seat, pinning his gaze on her.

"I thought my wife was the one I offended?" he asked. "You sound like a vengeful ghost who wants to get revenge on me instead."

He had been watching her reaction from the onset and believed she was equally mad at him. "Also, when did you start talking too much?" he added.

"You asked a question. I was only helping out," Nene answered without blinking.

Even if Xander was a little offended by her response, he couldn’t do much. Nene was almost ten years older than him, so he did respect her.

"Thank you for your idea. Good night," he said, dismissing her.

Nene bowed politely. But as soon as she stepped out and shut the door, she released a deep sigh. Her gaze lingered on the door for a moment before she turned around and left.

~***~

TUESDAY.

Finally, the day for Aurora’s ’Fruit Punch Champagne’ launch arrived.

Aurora left the house with Nene and the entire team Xander arranged to get her ready for the day at noon.

She arrived at the hotel and checked into her suite before going down to the event room in her Adidas black trainers and a face cap.

Everything was set, including the seating arrangements. The ushers were dressed and waiting. The technical team set the sound and improved it a little when Aurora noticed she couldn’t hear herself while on stage.

After that, Aurora did a mini-rehearsal with her team before checking on the little souvenirs still being packaged for her guests.

With the launch party preparations nearly complete, Aurora gathered the event planner, staff, and security team for a final briefing.

"Ensuring our guests’ safety and comfort is our top priority," she emphasized. "As esteemed individuals, they deserve exceptional treatment. I want to provide a seamless, luxurious experience that exceeds their expectations."

Aurora retreated to her hotel room to prepare for the launch. As she underwent pampering – facials, hairstyling, and makeup – a stunning bouquet of red roses arrived, accompanied by a heartfelt congratulatory note.

She placed the arrangement on her dresser, catching Nene’s knowing gaze in the mirror. The identity of the sender was unmistakable: Alexander Scott.

Aurora stood tall, a vision in her champagne floor-length gown. Her bare neck and gold earrings created a striking contrast, while the matte red lipstick accentuated her flawless mineral makeup. Every accessory was meticulously chosen to complement her outfit and exude confidence.

Thanks to Xander’s team, she looked and felt impeccable.

Ten minutes before the launch, Aurora entered the hall to find it nearly filled with guests, exceeding her expectations. A wave of relief washed over her, and she envisioned the launch’s success.

As soft music played in the background, she accepted a champagne glass from a waiter and made a graceful entrance, drawing every eye in the room. The soft gasps of admiration boosted her confidence.

Aurora’s first stop was her family’s table, where her father’s beaming smile welcomed her. She clinked glasses with him, and he said, "I’m proud of you," his voice filled with sincerity as he sipped his champagne.

Aurora thanked him and turned to her stepmother who offered a congratulatory smile and raised her glass.

"Congratulations," Stella said, her tone masking the envy and curiosity brewing beneath. She couldn’t help but wonder how Aurora had managed to attract such an impressive guest list.

"Thank you," Aurora said before moving her gaze to Olivia, who sat stone-faced, her jealousy palpable.

Olivia’s eyes narrowed, fixated on Aurora’s stunning gown. "Sister, I almost thought we had come for a fashion show instead of a champagne launch seeing you in that gown," she said, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

Aurora smiled graciously, totally ignoring her taunts. "Thank you." With that, she excused herself, leaving Olivia’s petty remark hanging in the air.

As Adam excused himself to greet newcomers, Olivia’s voice dropped to a venomous whisper, and her eyes locked on Aurora. "Mum, I can’t tolerate that smug smile any longer. Look at all the prestigious guests present. It will be best if this event ends before it even begins."

Stella’s gaze lingered on Aurora, a calculated glint in her eye. "Patience, darling," she whispered back, her smile sweetly sinister as she drummed her fingers on the table. "The evening has only just begun... trust your mother."

Chapter 34: Lights Out

Aurora glided effortlessly through the crowded room, exchanging warm smiles and handshakes with her esteemed guests. Her champagne gown shimmered under the soft lighting, drawing more admiring glances from every direction.

As she made her way through the cluster of guests while scanning the room, she spotted Abigail waving enthusiastically from the fourth table and quickly approached her with a warm smile.

Abigail jumped up to hug her tightly. "OMG! Aura, you look stunning! Congratulations on this achievement."

"Thank you, Abby." Aurora thanked Abigail, greeting her mother and the two industry icons she’d brought along – renowned actress, Gabriella Grant, and acclaimed producer, Cain Blackwood.

Abigail’s mother, Evelyn kissed her on both cheeks, beaming with pride. "Aurora, dear, you’ve outdone yourself. This launch is the talk of the town."

"You must be Aurora Swift," Gabriella said with a warm smile, offering her hand. "I’ve heard so much about this event. Congratulations."

Aurora shook her hand, momentarily taken aback by the actress’s genuine warmth. "Thank you. I’m a huge fan of your work," she replied. Turning to Cain, she added, "And yours too, Mr. Cain. Your films have always inspired me."

"Call me Cain," the producer chuckled, clearly charmed by Aurora’s graciousness. "And let me say, this event is impeccable. I can see why it’s the talk of the industry."

Just then, Aurora saw Asher accompanied by two influential figures – Emily Patel, creative director of Jimmy Miu, a popular luxury fashion brand, and Rachel Lee, editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine at Xander’s table and excused herself.

She greeted Xander politely, her gaze lingering on his clean-cut look before turning her attention to Asher, "Good to see you, Mr. Moore."

"Hey Aurora," Asher shook her hand firmly. "Allow me to introduce you to Emily and Rachel," Asher said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Aurora’s eyes widened as she exchanged greetings with the fashion powerhouses. "It’s an honour to meet you both."

Emily Patel praised Aurora’s gown. "You look breathtaking." Then shifting her gaze to Asher, she finished, "I’m guessing this is the works of your hands."

"You have good eyes," Asher chuckled.

Aurora almost couldn’t hold back the shock on her face learning that her gown was designed by Asher. Her gaze fell on Xander who nodded subtly in confirmation.

It had never occurred to her that he would get her something from his best friend’s brand since Asher’s family owned a couture brand as one of their many businesses.

Aurora felt Rachel’s keen gaze lingering on her and felt a little tense. Finally, Rachel smiled, a subtle, approving gesture. "You certainly know how to make an entrance, Miss Swift and your branding is impeccable. I’d love to discuss a feature for your champagne brand in our next issue."

Aurora felt her heart skip a beat. "I’d be honoured," she managed, trying to remain composed as they exchanged business cards.

"I will contact you soon," Rachel said to her and immediately, Aurora felt her determination to bring record-breaking sales for her champagne, soar.

She was going to do everything she could to make sure she won this challenge against Olivia.

From the corner of her eyes, Aurora caught the proud smile on Xander’s lips and felt grateful to him for what his connection pulled off for her.

Meanwhile, Stella watched Aurora interacting with so many dignitaries and felt her intestines twist. She almost lost her mind when she saw Xander in the room. According to Owen, he didn’t like her daughter’s kind of events, but he could honour Aurora’s invitation.

Having had enough of the confident smile on Aurora’s face plus the connection she was making. She excused herself and went to the bathroom, her expression calculating.

Stella locked the door to the women’s restroom behind her, pulling out her phone with deliberate precision. Her expression hardened as she dialled a number.

"Is everything in place?" she hissed into the phone, glancing toward the bathroom door.

The voice on the other end was low and gruff. "There’s too much security. I can’t get close enough without raising suspicion."

"I didn’t ask you to kill anyone so what’s so difficult in getting the work done?" Stella’s voice was sharp as she continued, "I only want this party dissolved. Turn on the fire alarm or something. Be creative!"

The man responded, "I can set off the fire alarms in ten minutes. That should cause enough chaos."

"Good," Stella said, her voice dripping with satisfaction. "Make sure it happens exactly as planned."

She ended the call and smoothed her dress, her wicked smile growing as she envisioned the chaos about to unfold. Exiting the restroom, she casually made her way back to her seat beside Olivia, who was already waiting with a knowing smirk.

"Watch," Stella whispered to her, her voice filled with venomous glee. "Aurora’s perfect little launch is about to come crashing down."

Olivia’s eyes lit up. "I can’t wait," she whispered back, her gaze narrowing as she found Aurora with a brilliant smile on her lips.

A few minutes later, it was time to take the stage so Aurora excused herself from the guests she was speaking to before stepping into the spotlight.

The lights dimmed slightly as she made her way up the stairs, the soft hum of anticipation growing as guests began to turn toward the stage. Aurora’s heart raced but in the best way possible.

The MC handed her the microphone with a gracious smile, and Aurora took it with a nod of thanks. She stood tall, radiating confidence as she prepared to speak.

"Good evening, everyone," she began, her voice clear and warm, "and thank you all for coming to celebrate the launch of Fruit Punch Champagne with me. Tonight—"

Suddenly, the lights flickered and went out, plunging the room into total darkness.

A murmur of confusion spread through the crowd, quickly escalating into full-blown panic as the fire alarm blared to life, its shrill ringing cutting through the air. Red emergency lights flashed from the corners of the room, bathing the elegant scene in an ominous glow.

Aurora’s heart leapt into her throat as chaos erupted. Guests scrambled from their seats, some shouting in alarm, while others hurried toward the exits, jostling in their haste to escape the potential danger.

Chapter 35: Coming to Her Rescue

Aurora’s heart pounded as she stood frozen on stage, gripping the microphone tightly. She had been moments away from launching the most significant project of her career, and now everything seemed to be unravelling before her eyes.

But just as suddenly as the chaos had started, it came to an abrupt halt. The fire alarm stopped blaring, and the lights flickered back on, casting a soft glow over the room.

For a brief second, there was silence—everyone looking around in confusion as if waiting for the next disaster. Then the low murmur of conversation began to ripple through the room.

Aurora exhaled slowly, her grip loosening on the microphone. Her heart, which had been racing, started to slow. She glanced towards the back of the room to see Lilian rushing towards her.

"Ma’am, are you okay?" Lilian asked as soon as she swiftly climbed the stage.

Aurora nodded, smiling reassuringly. "Yes, I’m fine. What happened?" Immediately, Lilian whispered something to her and left.

Aurora nodded, her shoulders relaxing as her gaze swept the room. "Good evening, everyone," her voice rang out, calm but firm. The microphone in her hand steadied as she addressed the room. "I sincerely apologize for the brief disruption and the inconveniences caused. Someone accidentally triggered the fire alarm. Rest assured, everything is under control now."

Almost immediately, the few guests who had rushed for the exit earlier began to return to their seats, murmurs subsiding.

"As a token of apology and appreciation for your understanding," Aurora continued, "Each of you will receive a complimentary bottle of ’Vintage Cellar’s latest product; the Fruit Punch Champagne."

On the other hand, Stella and Olivia’s faces twisted in frustration, their anger barely contained. They had been so sure their plan would work, and now Aurora was turning the tables.

"Mum, what just happened?" Olivia whispered, cautious about others at their table hearing their conversation.

"I will have to wait until the end to find out." Stella burned with rage within her but managed to hide it with a placid smile while clenching her fists under the table.

Olivia simply couldn’t accept that their plans had failed and turned to her father, her voice low but edged with bitterness. "Dad, did you hear that? Aurora just promised that every guest will go home with a bottle of champagne. There are about 150 guests here! Who’s going to pay for all of that? This is going to be a huge loss if our company handles the expenses!"

Adam’s gaze narrowed. "That’s not your concern, Olivia. You and your mother should worry about explaining your involvement in the disruption when we get home."

Olivia’s face paled at his words. Before she could protest, Stella leaned in, feigning indignation. "Adam, this is getting out of hand! What are you implying?"

Adam’s tone was firm. "Your daughter had a successful launch yesterday, but Aurora can’t? This entire incident looks like a sabotage to me."

Stella’s eyes flashed with anger, but she forced a smile, saying nothing more as Adam’s attention returned to the stage.

On stage, Aurora’s gaze swept the room as she began her speech, her voice ringing with newfound confidence. "Fruit Punch Champagne was born from a simple idea," she began, "after a conversation with someone whose elderly parents no longer enjoyed champagne at social gatherings. They found the high alcohol content and sugar overwhelming, and that’s when I realized there was a need for something different—something that could be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age."

Aurora’s words hung in the air as the guests listened, their interest piqued.

Stella and Olivia exchanged a glance, their faces twisting in anger and frustration as they watched Aurora command the stage. She spoke with such ease, her words resonating with the audience in a way they could not have anticipated.

Meanwhile, at his table near the front, Xander had been quietly observing the entire ordeal. The moment the fire alarm had gone off, he’d signalled, Liam, to investigate. And just now, Liam returned, bending down to whisper discreetly in his ear.

"Well?" Xander asked.

"Someone intentionally set off the alarm, sir," Liam replied.

Xander’s expression turned cold. "Did our men catch the idiot?"

"Yes, sir. He’s being interrogated," Liam quickly replied.

Xander’s jaw tightened slightly, his eyes narrowing. "Good," he muttered, his voice low and dangerous. "Make sure they find out who hired him. I want him delivered to his contractor tomorrow, as a little... reminder."

"Yes, Sir," Liam nodded.

"And be discreet," Xander added.

As the two men finished their quiet exchange, Xander’s attention returned to the stage, where Aurora was continuing her speech. His lips curled into a small, satisfied smile as he watched her captivate the audience. She was doing remarkably well, especially under such pressure.

Some minutes later, Aurora wrapped up her story and was about to hand the microphone back to the MC when Lilian appeared at her side again holding a small piece of paper.

Aurora took it, her brows lifting as she read the note. Then, with a bright smile, she turned back to the microphone.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I have wonderful news," she announced, her eyes sparkling. "The new Chairman and CEO of DANTE Group, Mr. Xander Scott, has generously offered to cover the cost of the complimentary champagne for all our guests!"

Immediately, a round of applause swept through the hall as the guests turned to look towards Xander’s table. Xander raised his glass in acknowledgement, a faint smile on his lips.

Aurora couldn’t help but feel a rush of gratitude as the applause echoed in her ears. Xander has saved her a ton with this grand gesture and her anger towards him dissipated by half.

Meanwhile, at their table, Stella and Olivia simmered in rage, watching what was happening. And the worst part of it all was that they couldn’t even express their emotions and had to be mindful of their facial expressions.

As Aurora handed the microphone back to the MC and descended from the stage, several guests began to send in their contributions for the champagne launch; through cash and contracts.

A permanent smile remained on Aurora’s face as she listened to the MC read note after note, her heart swelling with pride and relief. Although she could already guess the people behind her launch’s attempted sabotage, she didn’t give a fuck about them.

Since they were all about ruining her product, she would work hard to make sure she slapped the results of her success on their faces in no time.