Serena didn't even look up, completely unaware of the attention around her.
Smiling, she pulled out a wristwatch and began explaining its origin and design concept with genuine enthusiasm, her voice full of life.
A few nearby guests began to take notice.
"What a unique perspective," one of them remarked.
"I must say, your taste in Carolyn's Dreamscape collection is impeccable. It's leading the industry right now."
"Carolyn's work may not always be limited edition, but it's undeniably trendsetting. I didn't expect the daughter of Amber Hanson to have such deep insight. I've really underestimated you—I should've come over to chat much earlier."
"This tie clip is quite distinctive too. It really suits Mr. Hugh."
Before long, Serena was effortlessly blending into the crowd, holding court with charm and ease. Hugh remained beside her, his expression as unreadable and cool as always, quietly standing by and listening attentively.
It was as if, in the world of design she loved so much, Serena didn't need to do anything at all. She shone just by being there.
And in Hugh's eyes, she was all he could see.
Cole, unable to even find an opening to greet her, felt his frustration boil over. He turned on his heel and left.
Sarah stood frozen where he left her, surrounded by the murmurs of those nearby.
"I thought Cole was stepping in to run Nebula Design. Turns out the so-called couple doesn't know the first thing about design."
"Ha! That second daughter of the Jansen family really shot herself in the foot. But Mr. Hugh's wife? Now, that's impressive. Try to humiliate her, and she'll drench you in champagne. The poor girl's a soggy mess now."
"I seriously don't get how the Larson family could consider marrying such a tasteless brat."
"Maybe it's a shotgun wedding. It wouldn't be the first time someone used a baby to get through the door."
Sarah's eyes turned red with humiliation. The smell of champagne clinging to her made her sick.
She turned and headed straight down the stairs, slipping out to the small courtyard behind the building.
Gripping the edge of a faux rock formation, she gagged uncontrollably for a long while—until it felt like even bile was coming up.
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The readers' comments on the novel: Game Over No Second Chances