Zoe Hoffman was Ryanâs younger sister. She had been part of Justinâs life since her early years,
practically growing up before his eyes.
Ryan was an elder brother who took on a fatherly role. He was exceptionally doting toward his only
sister and showered her with attention that even rivaled the Thompson brothersâ affection for Bella.
After a moment of contemplation, Justin gave in and said, âAlright, come pick me up.â
Not long after, night fell upon the Savrow National Music Hall.
Ryan had secured a VIP box on the second floor well in advance, ensuring the best view to witness his
sisterâs brilliance. Beyond that, he had arranged for a camera setup and was fervently manipulating the
video equipment, eager to capture his sisterâs entire performance.
On the sidelines, Justin sat with his legs crossed. He cast a disdainful glance at Ryan, who appeared
more professional than the paparazzi, deeply engrossed in his camera.
Unimpressed, Justin said, âThe organizers will document the entire performance and even engrave it
onto commemorative discs for the performers. Donât embarrass yourself with your half-baked efforts.â
Ryan retorted, âA heartless person like you wouldnât understand! The footage captured by a beloved
brother is filled with brotherly love. How can it compare to the official recording?â
Just as Ryan adjusted the camera angle, his eyes widened, and an exclamation escaped his lips.
âDamn! Bella is here too. Did I miss something? And who the hell is that guy next to her? Why is his
face so pale? Is he sick?!â
Justinâs heart skipped a beat as he hurried to the railing. In a VIP box across the hall, Bella and
Christopher were both seated, exchanging glances while fully engrossed in their cheerful conversation.
On the other side, Bella was completely unaware of the green-eyed observers. With fewer people on
the second floor and the air conditioning running, the hall was colder than usual. Thus, Bella, wearing
only a thin emerald green evening gown, had small goosebumps forming on her arms.
Christopher noticed her shivering and, without a word, took off his suit jacket and kneeled in
front of her.
âChristopher, what are you doingâ¦?â Bellaâs eyes widened in surprise.
He covered her slender legs with his suit jacket and said, âIf your legs are warm, wonât feel so cold
anymore.â
then you
With a charming smile, he continued, âInitially, I thought about suggesting you wear this jacket, but your
dress is just too stunning. Youâre like a siren from ancient Greek mythology. I wouldnât want to hide your
beauty.â
Bella, feeling a bit flustered, shifted her
toes uncomfortably in her high heels. The direct and bold gesture from Christopher was a stark contrast
to what she was used to. âPerhaps men in
Sentania are always this bold. Maybe this is why Camilla fell for her husband!â
Meanwhile, Justin, who was watching from afar, could not hide his growing frustration. Watching
Christopher kneel in front of Bella heightened Justinâs emotions. He held on tightly to the railing until his
knuckles turned white.
The prominent blue veins on his hands revealed the tension building up within him.
In the midst of all this, Justin could not help but wonder about the true nature of Bellaâs relationship with
Christopher. The question lingered in his mind. âWere they really just friends, or was there something
more?â
In an instant, Justinâs chest tightened as he held his breath, wary of the subtle ache intensifying.
âWho the hell is that guy?!â
Ryan, who once had his eye on Bella, felt a twinge of dissatisfaction seeing another suitor by his
goddessâs side, despite the fact that she had completely rejected him.
He complained, âHe must be a wolf in sheepâs clothing. Also, look at how pale he is! Is he a vampire?â
Justinâs gaze was still fixated on Bella. His voice was as cold as ice. âHeâs Chairman Iversonâs
youngest son, Christopher.â
Ryan was momentarily stunned. âThe Iversons? Why do I have no memory of him?!â
Justin explained, âHe has been in Sentania for over a decade and has just recently returned to
Savrow.â
âThe Iversons are indeed a tough nut to crack. Why is everyone so eager for Bellaâs attention? The
rivalry sure is heating up!â Ryan squinted his eyes as he spoke, his eyes fixated on Justinâs tense
expression.
âJustin, you know the saying, even the sturdiest tree can sway in strong winds. Youâve got two options-
either retreat gracefully or face the challenge head-on. Itâs your choice.â
Justin took a deep breath and clenched his teeth. âJust keep your mouth shut!â