"The Mason Group heiress is getting married the day after tomorrow. Come with me to the banquet."
"What about Riley?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
"There will be plenty of business tycoons there. Riley’s my executive secretary, so she has to attend," Vernon replied matter-of-factly, his tone unemotional.
"Then I—" I hesitated, ready to refuse, but he interrupted me before I could finish.
"You are my wife. Your status is different. You must attend."
I had no choice but to agree.
At the wedding banquet, the three of us arrived together.
Riley, ever the attention-seeker, wore a gown far more extravagant than mine, practically glued to Vernon’s side.
I used to be the one standing next to him at events like this, but now, Riley had taken that place, and to everyone around us, she was the one who seemed to hold the title of Mrs. Hamilton.
"President Hamilton, long time no see. When will we have a chance to collaborate?" President Landers greeted Vernon with a smile.
"President Landers, good to see you. Let’s arrange a drink sometime," Vernon responded with the same polite smile.
"And this must be the famously beautiful Mrs. Hamilton?" The question hung in the air, a subtle sting in its words.
"When will we finally get to drink at your wedding banquet?"
A teasing glint flickered in Mr. Landers’ eyes as he cast a knowing glance at Riley.
"Mr. Landers, this is my secretary," Vernon corrected him, his expression unwavering. "My wife, Eloise, is right here."
Realizing his blunder, Mr. Landers’ face paled, and he quickly fumbled for an apology.
"Madam, you are as elegant as a lotus in full bloom. Vernon is truly fortunate."
After a few more pleasantries, he hurried away, leaving me alone with Riley.
"Sister, don’t take offense," Riley murmured, a smug smile tugging at her lips. "You haven’t attended public events in over a year. Naturally, people get confused."
"If you spent more time with Vernon, this wouldn’t happen again."
I had no patience for her veiled jabs. Ignoring her, I excused myself, my body still fragile from the miscarriage. Fatigue clung to me like a heavy shroud, and I needed a moment to rest.
I had barely closed my eyes when a strange presence stirred near me.
A sudden chill skittered down my spine.
I jolted awake, my breath catching as I found a man unbuttoning my dress.