Chapter 825: Chapter 825

Chapter 825:

Oaklee then looked around the room curiously.

“Hey, Skyla, the maid’s daughter isn’t coming over today?” Oaklee knew Etta, whose less refined maneuvers often made her the subject of ridicule in their affluent circles. Oaklee’s interest in Etta solely stemmed from her natural inclination to watch the drama unfold from the sidelines, fueled by the many tales she had heard about Etta’s poor treatment of the true Sanderson family daughter, Harlee.

When Oaklee referred to Etta as the “maid’s daughter,” Skyla remained unbothered and explained in a measured tone, “Oh, are you talking about Etta? She’s decided to stay close to Harlee today, just in case she’s suddenly needed.”

A shadow of skepticism momentarily crossed Oaklee’s expression. Was it possible for Etta to sincerely accept a subordinate role to Harlee, or was Etta possibly making up another plan? However, Oaklee quickly dismissed her concerns, well aware of Harlee’s adeptness in managing such situations.

Harlee was not one to be easily outmaneuvered.

“Alright then.”

“I’ll take this time to mingle with the other guests,” Oaklee replied, ready to continue her socializing. Oaklee walked through the crowd, confidently linked with Patrick.

Although Patrick didn’t hold a high rank, his recent endeavors with Rhys at the Green Group had somewhat elevated his standing in the sector.

Consequently, Oaklee felt no discomfort in being seen with Patrick. If anything, it acted as a subtle rebuke to her own family, the Swains.

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Time passed quickly, and yet there was no appearance from Harlee and Rhys. The media, stationed outside, managed only to get hidden images of the influential attendees, adhering to privacy rules by avoiding publishing clear pictures without consent.

Despite the lack of vivid media coverage, online interest surged, with occasional comments popping up. The hashtag “Rhys and Harlee’s Engagement Banquet” kept trending at the top of social feeds.

In the presidential suite of Grand Oak, Harlee reclined comfortably in Rhys’ embrace, her casual clothes still on, the evening gown yet untouched. Just then, Rhys’ phone broke the silence.

“Hamilton on the line,” Rhys answered.

“Mr. Green, there’s been a development. Someone is indeed tailing Liam. I’ve detained an accomplice. Should we continue on this trail?” Hamilton’s voice was steady.

Rhys caught Harlee’s affirming nod out of the corner of his eye and responded, “No rush. I’ll take over from here.”

“Are you coming over? Aren’t you…?” Hamilton hesitated, the question about the engagement ceremony hanging unfinished in the air.

Rhys ended the call abruptly.

Harlee had alluded to a real shocker. The actual engagement celebration for the two families was scheduled for tomorrow, not today. The purpose of today’s gathering was to draw out Hale from hiding, using the supposed engagement party as a trap. This scheme was a joint brainchild of Harlee and Rhys. They had chosen to keep their parents in the dark, so only the two of them knew the true schedule.

Once Rhys departed, Harlee settled into a cozy corner of the couch, anticipating the appearance of Hale’s agent. Yet, she never expected it would be Etta.

As Harlee unwound the wrapper from a piece of hard candy and tossed it into her mouth, a flicker of annoyance crossed her face when Etta abruptly appeared at the door.

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