Chapter 754 Unwanted Gift

Christina felt nothing toward Azure, so she had no qualms about doing so.

Hesitantly, Lyle disclosed. “The Stone family has already suppressed the discussion. If we intentionally make it a trending topic, the Stone family will come looking for trouble.”

Fearlessly, Christina replied, “That’s exactly what we want. Barnaby cares about his dignity. He wants the outside world to see him as an affectionate man. While he may suppress trending topics once, he won’t do it again. Even if he knows I’m pulling the strings behind the scene, he can only swallow his anger and let it happen.”

If Christina acquires evidence related to Barnaby on the case from fifteen years ago, he’ll face much more dire consequences than going on trending and getting lambasted by netizens. “I understand now.” Lyle promptly turned around and left.

Victoria delegated the rest of her work to Rayne before approaching Christina with Hera in tow. “Have you thought about where you’ll bring Hera and me for a fancy meal, Christina? We’re ready to leave.”

Christina smiled. “What do you want to eat? I’ll book us a table now.”

In response, Victoria turned to Hera. “Are you craving any food specifically?”

Hera wasn’t picky, so she said, “I’m good with anything, so I’ll let Ms. Steele decide. Food isn’t something I’m particular about.”

“In that case, let me choose a place for you. We’ll go to the restaurant you’ve mentioned to me a few times before. It’s not far from here, so we can just walk there. It’ll be quicker than traveling by car since we won’t be stuck in traffic. What do you think?”

After Hera turned to Christina, the latter nodded. “We’ll listen to Victoria, then. I’ll book our table now.”

She promptly made a call and booked a table before sending a text message to Nathaniel, informing him of her plans.

Nathaniel was probably busy because he didn’t reply immediately Christina didn’t think much about it. Abruptly, Hera informed apologetically, “I need to visit the restroom first. Please wait for me. Ms. Steele “It’s fine. I’ll wait, replied Christina Linking arms with Hera, Victoria suggested. “Let’s go together Since you aren’t familiar with this place, show you the way Without delay, they left As Christina waited for them. Rayne troned toward hewith a pink, rectangular box. “Thank goodnes you’re still he Staring at Rayne’s hands Christia How ls in a C This is Me Laborg, congratulating you on the Rayne lowered her eyes and glanced at the card on the box. “It’s Hendrick Labarge.”

While she didn’t know who Hendrick was, Christina did.

Christina sneered, “Throw it away. I don’t need it.” If I accept this gift, not only will I end up angering Nathaniel, but it will also be the end of my quiet, peaceful days. I know what Hendrick’s thinking.

Stunned, Rayne inquired, “Are you sure you want me to throw it away before checking what’s inside? It seems expensive,”

“If you like it, you can keep it. Mr. Hadley dislikes seeing me accepting gifts from other men.” D Tactfully, Rayne nodded and opened the present in front of Christina. Inside the box was a beautifully packaged rose with an unconcealable, delicate, rustic vibe.

The style of the present was a match with Hendrick’s taste.

Rayne remarked, “I thought it would be something expensive, like an antique vase or even jewelry. To think it’s a single red rose.

Whoever this man is, he doesn’t know what’s appropriate at all. He’s aware you’re a married woman, yet he still gifted you something that’ll cause others to misunderstand your relationship with him. What a sly man.”

Nonchalantly, Christina uttered, “Which is why its final resting place will be inside a garbage bin.”

“I’ll toss it away right now!” Irritated, Rayne searched for a trash can while holding the box.

When Victoria and Hera returned from the restroom, they ran into the incensed Rayne. Hence, upon returning to Christina’s side, Victoria asked. “Who ticked Rayne off? Why does she look like she wants to punch someone?”

“She doesn’t like the gift, so she’s angry,” explained Christina apathetically.

Naturally, Victoria misunderstood the situation. “John still hasn’t won her over after trying for so long?”

Suddenly, she heard John’s icy voice ring out from behind her. “Allow me to clarify something, Ms. Lesley. My relationship with Rayne isn’t what you think it is.”

Mischievously, Victoria smiled at John. “Ah, so Rayne’s love is unrequited. No wonder she still hasn’t succeeded in getting a boyfriend yet.”

Holding his camera firmly in his hands, he ignored Victoria and left without sparing her another glance.

Awkwardly, Victoria commented, “John can’t stand even a little teasing, huh? He gets shy so easily. He can’t just wait for Rayne to approach him in the future.”

Staring at John’s back, Christina spoke thoughtfully. “Some people aren’t good at expressing their inner thoughts. Just because he doesn’t show it on his face doesn’t mean he knows nothing. Instead of intervening in their relationship, you should focus on your marriage with Sebastian.”

Smiling from ear to ear, Hera added, “Ms. Steele is right. Please grant me the experience of being a bridesmaid before I go into seclusion.”

Exasperated, Victoria stomped her foot. “Argh, stop teasing me, or I won’t be talking to you guys anymore! How annoying”

Hastily, Hera put an arm around Victoria’s shoulder and tried to appease her. “All right, all right, we won’t make fun of you anymore. It’s been a tiring day for you, so don’t lose your temper, okay? Let’s head to the restaurant.”

Christina chimed in, “To celebrate the success of our event, feel free to order whatever you want to eat. It’ll be my treat, all right?”

Victoria beamed instantly and took her friends’ hands before the three women headed out happily.

The restaurant they visited was located next to Global Shopping Center. As Victoria and Hera were famous figures, Christina booked the entire place to prevent people from disturbing them.

“I booked a table at your restaurant an hour ago with my phone. Yet, you’re telling me now that I didn’t receive a notification because of your oversight? Do you really think apologies can solve this problem? How are you all planning to compensate me for my wasted time?” A familiar voice rang out.

When the trio heard that, they simultaneously turned in the direction of the voice and saw Melanie.

The instant Victoria spotted Melanie, she rose from her seat and approached the latter as though she was a cat who encountered a mouse.

“Victoria...” Hera couldn’t stop Victoria in time. To ensure Victoria wouldn’t cause a commotion, Christina and Hera followed her.

Victoria pushed the restaurant manager aside, crossed her arms in front of her chest, and stared at Melanie provocatively. “I was the one who booked the entire