âBut have you considered why you still lost against me despite being well prepared?â Justinâs eyes
remained composed, and he gave a beautiful yet cynical smile. âEven if I resorted to playing mind
games, itâs all to win Bellaâs favor. On the other hand, your intentions seem far from innocent. Despite
knowing that Mrs. Iverson was feeling unwell, you insisted on bringing her to the banquet tonight. Just
by doing that, youâve set yourself up for failure.â
With those words, Justin walked away. Christopherâs breath was ragged as he gazed hatefully at
Justin.
The banquet unfolded in a lively and joyful atmosphere.
Justin felt extremely happy to have achieved an initial victory. He decided to step outside for a smoke
to reward himself.
He did not walk far from the banquet hall when a delicate call reached his ears, tugging at his
heartstrings.
âJustin!â
His chest tightened, and he swiftly turned around. Bella was swiftly approaching him.
Her clear, bright eyes sparkled with hope. Her silky hair was swaying lightly with the wind, and her red
lips exuded a seductive charm.
Justin felt an impulse surge within him to pull her tightly into ant embrace and kiss her.
In they could hear each otherâs erratic breathing. There were no words exchanged, just silence. The
tension in the air was almost palpable. link of an eye, Bella stood before him. Their gazes met, and
Bella was the first to break the silence. âI didnât expect you to prepare such an unexpected gift for Aunt
Celeste tonight.â She lightly coughed.
Her beautiful eyes sparkled, and she continued. âI could tell that among all the birthday gifts, the one
she liked most was the crown prop you gave her. It even overshadowed all the gifts I gave her.â
Justinâs complexion suddenly turned pale, and he quickly explained, â Iâm sorry, Bella. I just thought that
Madam Celeste would like the gift very much. I didnât think it through.â
He continued to apologize, âIâm really sorry. I never had the intention of stealing the limelight. Youâre
Madam Celesteâs precious family, and the gift you gave her must be her favorite.â
âHey, can you stop apologizing to me for no reason? How ma imes do I have to say it? I hate it when
you keep saying sorry to m makes me feel like I bully you all the time!â
Bella frowned impatiently and pursed her red lips. âI just want thank you for your gift.â
Justin was shocked. He could handle it when she scolded him, hi him, and threw tantrums at him. But
when she unexpectedly said â thank youâ, he found himself at a loss.
âItâs been a long, long time since I felt this happy, especially about Aunt Celeste.â Bella smiled
contentedly. âSo, no matter what, I have to express my gratitude.â
âIn your heart, family will always be the most important. Thatâs great.â Justin gazed affectionately.
âYou used to be important to me too.â Bellaâs heart trembled at the thought. A myriad of emotions
surged in her chest.
âBy the way, Bella, come with me.â Justin grabbed her hand. âI also have a gift for you.â