Chapter 45: Humiliated
JULIA
Silence.
The party was just at its peak a few seconds ago, but now, silence reigned in the large garden. It didn’t help that the DJ stopped playing the music, too. Even the crickets had gone quiet.
Come to think of it, I should have noticed how strange everything was. The curtains on the stage. The microphone. in Evan’s hand. The set–up itself. It seemed like they were gearing up for a surprise.
And then, I noticed it. His other hand was occupied.
In his palm was a small velvet box. My breath got caught in the back of my throat. It didn’t take a genius to know it. was a ring.
It must have been the reason why Heather invited me, too. Well, she really had no reason in the first place. But, she must have wanted me to see this–his proposal–knowing it would tear me to pieces.
Evan must have noticed my gaze, so he placed it inside his pocket. However, it was too late.
I heard something drop from behind me. Ijabruptly turned around and saw Heather. She was now dressed in a shorter red dress compared to the one she entered in.
She was at the corner of the stage, seemingly just having gotten up. On the ground was her champagne glass, the liquid contents spilling over the stage and onto the ground.
Then, after that, I directed my gaze to the crowd.
There were various reactions–but one thing that stood out was shock.
Of course, they would be shocked. I just announced to the entire clan that Evan had a son!
My gaze went to the Astors and Maisons, who were at the front. Garyn Astor’s expression couldn’t be painted. His wife, Cindy, on the other hand, glared at me with rage.
I gulped and turned to Heather’s family members. Her mother looked like she was on the verge of passing out, while her dad had a betrayed look on his face.
Meanwhile, Evan’s cousins had wide eyes and agape mouths, except for one.
Lucas looked at everyone with an amused smile, casually sipping on his wine. He then turned to the stage and caught my eyes. It was then that he winked.
I felt dread fill my stomach. Was he aware of what was happening? Is this why he wished me good luck?
And then, I turned to the person whose reaction I dreaded the most–Evan.
I pursed my lips as his pale face came into vision. It seemed like he couldn’t believe it, too. However, I looked at him as sincerely as possible.
“I’m sorry,” I muttered before I could stop myself. The microphone picked it up once more. I sighed. Just how good quality was this microphone to be able to pick up such sensitive sounds?
With that, I went closer to him and covered the microphone I was in too deep. It would be a waste if I stopped now.
“It’s at the resort next to Sunshine School,” I said. “He’ll appreciate it if you went there.”
He still didn’t respond.
