Katelyn exuded the allure and poise of a captivating siren. It was easy to see why Vincent seemed completely taken with her. She embodied the very image of a seductress. A flicker of jealousy sparkled in Fiona’s eyes.

As Ashlyn started to speak up, Katelyn raised a hand to gently stop her and addressed Fiona directly.

“Miss, can you present any proof that I have attempted to steal someone’s fiancé?” Katelyn’s presence was commanding, emanating a sharp and resolute energy.

At that moment, Fiona’s confidence faltered. She didn’t have any solid proof; she just wanted to defend Ryanna by humiliating Katelyn. She hoped to earn Ryanna’s approval, knowing it would benefit her family in the long run.

Not giving Fiona a chance to respond, Katelyn continued, “Additionally, I was explicitly invited to this event by the hostess. What authority do you have to question my presence here? Do you really think you rule over us all?”

Fiona had never encountered someone who addressed issues so directly. She had assumed that Vincent’s secret lover would never dare to retort, especially at Ryanna’s birthday celebration. However, her expectations were completely shattered. Instead, she found herself humiliated.

With a dismissive look, Ashlyn said to Fiona, “I’m sorry, but I was raised to avoid making baseless accusations. Next time you try to insult someone, make sure you have proof. Otherwise, you might find yourself facing a defamation lawsuit.”

Both Katelyn and Ashlyn knew this evening’s banquet was far from ordinary. Fiona’s unexpected intrusion did catch them off guard. But they didn’t expect Fiona to be such a fool.

Laughter erupted from nearby guests who had overheard the exchange. Red-faced and seething, Fiona glared at Katelyn and Ashlyn.

“Don’t be too smug. Just remember, you’re nothing but a third wheel. Vincent is bound to leave you sooner or later!”

Ashlyn replied coldly, “Just shut up and stop spouting nonsense. You are just making a fool of yourself.”

In such confrontations, Ashlyn was always prepared. As the only daughter in her family, she had faced countless provocations in social circles like these.

Fiona slammed her glass onto the table with a thud. The drink splashed over the edges. Pointing a finger at Ashlyn, she shouted, “You wretch! What did you just say? Who the hell are you? You’re just a nobody looking for trouble!”

Fiona had no idea who Ashlyn was, so her words became harsh.

Suddenly, Ashlyn struck Fiona with a sharp slap across the face. The crisp sound echoed through the room, leaving the crowd stunned. They didn’t expect the situation to escalate to physical violence.

Unflinching, Ashlyn said, her voice cutting, “Since you don’t have the manners to speak properly, I’ll teach you. Did you get the message?” Her tone was cold and unyielding.

Infuriated by the pain and humiliation, Fiona lunged at Ashlyn. But suddenly, her wrist was firmly seized!

Katelyn’s gaze was cold as she looked at Fiona.

“You better think carefully about the consequences, or you might find them too much to bear.”

Fiona didn’t pose a significant threat. Katelyn was more than capable of dealing with her.

Katelyn’s stare was piercing, and unexpectedly, Fiona felt herself hesitate. Feeling the threat, Fiona became wary. She inhaled deeply, and despite her reluctance, she knew she had to tolerate the situation.

At that moment, Ryanna’s voice emerged nearby.

“Miss Bailey, I was on my way to ask for your advice on some jewelry. I’m surprised to find you here.”

Her smile was soft, seemingly oblivious to the tension that had just unfolded between Fiona and Katelyn.

.

.

.