Chapter 378

Nathan had to resolve this matter alone—no one else could shoulder this burden for him.

With a knowing smile, Theodore gave Nathan's shoulder another reassuring pat. "I'm glad you're seeing things clearly now! Congratulations on reclaiming your freedom! After the divorce papers are signed, you owe us all a celebratory dinner. We'll make it a night to remember."

Each word Theodore spoke made Nathan's fist tighten in his pocket.

Every syllable grated on his nerves like sandpaper.

He grabbed his wine glass and drained it in one swift motion.

As the gala officially began, the grand hall fell into hushed anticipation, all eyes turning toward Leonard and Margaret as they took the stage.

After delivering brief welcoming remarks, they gracefully descended.

Immediately, a swarm of well-wishers surrounded them, voices buzzing with flattery and thinly veiled agendas.

Meanwhile, among the more gossip-inclined guests, whispers began to circulate like wildfire.

"Have you noticed? Nathan hasn't been accompanied by a woman all evening. Where's his wife?"

"Could it be that even for such an important family event, Leonard's daughter-in-law still refuses to show her face?"

"It's utterly baffling! Nathan's wife remains a complete enigma."

"At this point, it's beyond mysterious—it's as if she doesn't exist at all."

"Precisely! Her absence speaks volumes about how little regard the Grant family must have for her."

"Or perhaps they're ashamed to present her in polite society!"

The murmurs weren't confined to curious onlookers—the elite socialites eagerly joined the speculation.

Particularly Beatrice, who never missed an opportunity to one-up Olivia.

"Tell me, Mrs. Sinclair, why is your precious Evelyn attending as merely your and Marcus's acquaintance?"

Beatrice's pointed barb instantly drew the attention of nearby socialites.

Their eyes darted between each other, expressions alight with scandalized curiosity.

"Yes, why would Evelyn Hartley attend as just another guest at Leonard's birthday gala?" another voice chimed in, fanning the flames.

Olivia remained composed, her voice cool. "Evelyn has her reasons."

Beatrice arched a perfectly sculpted eyebrow, her tone dripping with faux concern. "Oh? So you're claiming it was entirely Evelyn's decision to attend as someone other than Nathan's wife? The Sinclair family had no hand in this arrangement?"

Meeting Beatrice's gaze steadily, Olivia replied, "That's exactly what I'm saying. Is there a problem with that?"

Beatrice gave an exaggerated shrug. "If you insist that's the truth, then so be it. I merely asked a question."

She paused dramatically before adding, "By the way, Mrs. Sinclair, have you heard the latest about Nathan and his ex? As an outsider, even I find his behavior shocking! A married man sneaking around with his former lover? Midnight rendezvous are bad enough, but public displays of affection? Absolutely scandalous!"

Olivia's expression darkened, her eyes sharpening like daggers as they locked onto Beatrice.