Chapter 114
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Daisy’s POV:
I buried my head in my hands as the weight of humiliation crushed me like a physical force, making it hard to breathe.
The sound of hurried footsteps made me look up briefly to see my parents rushing here, their faces etched with concern and confusion.
“Daisy, what happened?” Mom asked, her elegant features tightening with worry.
Dad stood behind her, his usually commanding presence now shadowed with concern.
Finley straightened his posture, explained.
“Someone impersonating the artist Liora convinced Daisy she was genuine! I exposed the fraud during the dinner because I actually represent the real Liora in Europe.”
He paused, glancing at me. “The real Liora is actually Audrey Lane, which Daisy didn’t know and refused to believe.”
“I’m so sorry,” I choked out between sobs, looking up briefly at my parents concerned faces.
“I really didn’t know… she–she promised me she was Liora. She had credentials, portfolios… everything! She tricked me…”
Mom gently rubbed my back.
“So it was an honest mistake,” Mom concluded, her voice softening as she continued to comfort me. “You didn’t do it on purpose.”
Dad nodded, placing a protective hand on my shoulder.
“These things happen in high society, particularly with art world charlatans. Daisy’s not to blame for being deceived.”
“Being deceived wasn’t your fault,” Finley acknowledged, his voice still unnervingly stern.
“But let’s be honest about your intentions. You’ve been targeting Audrey since she arrived–changing her room assignment, trying to diminish
her at every turn.”
“I think you owe her an apology.”
I stared at him in disbelief, fresh tears springing to my eyes.
How could he be so cruel while I was already at my lowest?
I cried, my voice cracking. “Look at me! I’m humiliated in front of everyone who matters in Chicago society, and all you care about is making
sure Audrey gets an apology?”
Finley opened his mouth to respond. “Everyone has to answer for their makes-
“That’s enough,” Ethan interjected, stepping closer to me.
He shot Finley a warning glance that spoke volumes.
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11:20 Thu Feb5 ENu•
Chapter 114
“She already knows she made a mistake. There’s no need to keep hammering the point.”
My brother placed a protective hand on my shoulder.
Even though I could feel his disappointment radiating through his touch, is instinct to shield me hadn’t wavered.
It’s alright, darling,” Mom said soothingly, rubbing small circles on my back.
“We know you weren’t trying to cause trouble. These things happen in social circles.”
Her gentle words only made me cry harder.
Sara, let’s take her upstairs to rest,” Dad said quietly, exchanging a meaningful look with Mom. “She needs some time away from all this.”
Mom nodded, helping me to my feet. “Come on, sweetie. Let’s get you cleaned up.”
Dad turned to Ethan, his expression serious.
“Handle things here. Make sure there’s no more drama tonight. Check if anyone’s still recording and have them delete the footage.”
“I’ll take care of it,” Ethan promised, his voice firm with determination.
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Once we reached the privacy of the family suite, I collapsed onto the nearest couch, my body still shaking with sobs.
Mom sat beside me, gently stroking my hair.
“There, there, darling,” Mom soothed, wiping a tear from my cheek.
“Once this whole wedding business is over, we’ll go shopping at that boutique you love on Michigan Avenue. Perhaps several new Hermès bags would help you forget this unfortunate evening?”
I sniffled, trying to compose myself.
Shopping therapy was Mom’s solution to everything, but right now, I have something else I want to do.
“Actually,” I said hesitantly, my voice still quavering, “after Finley’s wedding is over… I was hoping you and Dad might help me with something more important.”
I took a deep breath. “I want you to help arrange an engagement… with Caspar Thornton.”
Mom’s hand froze mid–stroke.
“You and Caspar Thornton?” Her eyes widened in surprise. “Is he the man you’ve been interested in?”
I nodded, feeling a blush creep into my tear–stained cheeks.
Dad, who had been standing by the window, turned with a measured nod
approval.
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11:20 Thu, Feb 5 ENG
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Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
