Chapter 126
The dinner was held at Benjamin’s uncle’s home, a European-style mansion. A long, paved driveway led from the iron gates, flanked by expansive green lawns. By the time they arrived, the parking area was already filled with luxury cars.
As soon as they got out, Benjamin wrapped an arm around Rebekah’s waist, ignoring her resistance. “You will not embarrass me tonight. If you do, I can’t guarantee what will happen p>
Rebekah stiffened but didn’t fight him. Just being here made her muscles tense.
Justin was standing at the entrance. Seeing them arrive, he came down to greet them. “Benjamin, sister-in-law, welcome.” His eyes landed on Rebekah, his admiration undisguised. “You look absolutely beautiful tonight p>
Justin was a year older than Benjamin, and the cousins shared a slight resemblance. But Justin carried himself with a calmer, more mature air. His dark hair was slicked back, revealing a sharp, handsome face that had a predatory edge. Even when he smiled, it seemed to hide a blade.
Benjamin frowned, removing his hand from Rebekah’s waist and stepping slightly in front of her. “No need to stand on ceremony for family. I’ll take Rebekah inside p>
He took her hand and led her into the mansion.
Justin watched them go, the smile on his face slowly turning to ice.
The moment they were inside, Rebekah pulled her hand free.
Benjamin’s brow furrowed in annoyance. “There’s a limit to your tantrums, Rebekah. This is an important occasion p>
“I didn’t want to come,” she retorted sharply. The moment she had stepped into this house, a profound sense of unease had washed over her. She couldn’t forget what had happened here, three years ago Benjamin knew everything, yet he had still forced her to come and now expected her to play the part of a
loving wife. She wasn’t that
generous.
He was about to snap back but thought of what was to come and bit his tongue.
The event was more like a grand
party than a family dinner. The hall
was filled with high-society figures in lavish attire, mingling and sipping Rebekah
champagne. As soon d
and Benjamin entered, subtle glances were cast in her direction.
The recent online scandals about the Young Lady Forrester had become a hot topic. Everyone in this circle, even those who didn’t use the internet, had heard the rumors Rebekah cheating on her husband Rebekah causing a hit-and-rum, Rebekah jealously crippling her own sister, Rebekah using her power to bully others… The list went on, becoming fodder for gossip over drinks. Since Rebekah rarely socialized with these people, their criticism was even more pointed.
Benjamin led her over to greet his uncle and aunt.
“Uncle Abbas, Aunt Violet p>
Abbas Forrester and his wife, Violet, were talking to guests. When they saw Benjamin and Rebekah, Abbas smiled warmly, but Violet’s expression visibly soured.
“Benjamin, you’re here. How have you been p>
“Fine, Uncle p>
As Benjamin and Abbas began to chat, Violet turned to Rebekah, a mocking smile
on her lips. “You’ve become quite the celebrity lately, Rebekah. I’ve even seen
you on television.” She was referring to the online smear campaign.