Chapter 511

Jaired towered over Allvia, making her look almost delicate, like a damsel, by his side. His presence was commanding. likely a result of his military background. He stood tall and straight as an oak, even in his all–black attire. Yet, the dark hues didn’t make him seem. brooding. Instead, he resembled a tree bursting through the earth, full of life and promise.

As he weaved through the crowd, he greeted everyone with a warm smile, as if he knew them. all personally. Every now and then, he’d turn to whisper something to Alivia, causing her to burst into laughter. Together, they were a striking pair.

Jaired’s gaze landed on Max, his eyes lighting up with recognition. “Max,” he called out, striding over with a confident galt, and clapping him on the shoulder. A wave of his masculine aura enveloped them.

“Been a while, eh, Max?”

His attention quickly shifted to Brielle, sizing her up before his eyes darted back to Alivia as if drawing comparisons.

Max nodded to him, his usual cool demeanor unfazed. Max stood with an effortless grace, his silhouette smooth and refined–a stark contrast to Jaired’s rugged charm.

Brielle locked eyes with Alivia, offering a faint smile that effectively blocked Alivia’s intended path.

Alivia’s smile faltered for a moment before she returned the nod, acknowledging the silent confrontation.

The tension between the two women was palpable, and the surrounding onlookers, aware of Brielle’s recent pairing with Max, were keen to witness the drama unfold. Rumors had it that Brielle had boldly claimed Max right from under Michael’s nose.

Tonight, Brielle was undoubtedly the center of attention. The moment she stepped in, eyes–both overt and covert–were on her. Any disparaging remarks were kept at bay, for she was Max’s girlfriend, the only one he’d publicly acknowledged in years.

Max’s status was well–known; crossing Brielle in his presence was not just foolish–it was suicidal The crowd watched with bated breath, expecting a showdown, but both women maintained a cool facade, like a battlefield devoid of smoke.

Brielle was genuinely indifferent, whereas Alivia was only masking her turmoil. Her heart was seething, especially witnessing Max and Brielle so openly together. The humiliation of that night and her deep–

seated love for Max was too intense to hide, her fingernails digging into her palm.

Jaired, sensing her distress, gently touched her shoulder, subtly directing her away. “Those heels weren’t made for standing all night, Alivia. Let’s find you a seat.”

Alivia glanced at him, a smile playing on her lips. “You seem more attentive since you’ve been away.

“When have I ever been anything but?” he retorted. He then turned to Max. “I’ll take Alivia over there.”

Max nodded, his gaze lingering on Brielle. “Hungry? Should we grab a bite?”

Brielle watched Jaired’s retreating back. Was Jaired another suitor for Alivia? And one who seemed quite smitten at that.

Holding Alivia steady, Jaired caught the flicker of resentment in her eyes and smiled. “Why the rush? I promised I’d be back to help you, didn’t I? Whatever you want, I’ll get it for you.”

Alivia took a deep breath, quickly regaining her composure. “Jaired, I knew I could count on you.”

His lips curled in a smile, but he remained silent.

After seating Alivia among the high society ladies, Jaired was met with teasing remarks.

“Jaired, still carrying a torch for Miss Alivia, I see.”

“Careful, or your old man might ship you off again.”

With Alivia settled, Jaired’s eyes twinkled with humor. “I’ve come back just to be around Alivia. Even if he sends me away, I’d find a way back.”

His voice carried, and those nearby overheard. His words gave Alivia a sense of validation. He was the sole heir to the Riddle estate, arguably the most prestigious lineage there, handsome and unyieldingly devoted to Alivia. Despite knowing her heart lay elsewhere, he waited patiently.

What was it about Alivia that drew such admiration?

The women looked on with envy. On one hand, she had a childhood friend in Max, a brother like Kenzo, and now Jaired was relentlessly pursuing her. Calling her the darling of the heavens. seemed an understatement.