Chapter 534
Chapter 534:
Richard’s jaw tightened as embarrassment crawled up his neck like a rash. Sandra’s words struck a nerve, each one amplifying his sense of failure. He understood exactly how precarious the Morgan family’s situation was. But there was nothing he could do.
These guests were no fools. They were seasoned players of Wront’s social game, always betting on the highest future returns.
And right now, Maia held all the cards. Her influence was staggering — far beyond what he had imagined. And the worst part? Even he felt the urge to apologize, crawl back, and beg Maia to return.
But his pride was a wall too tall to climb. The party had already begun; he could not afford to stop it midway.
“We just need to get through the rest of the night,” he said through gritted teeth. “Let’s keep things moving and end it cleanly. Whatever happens next, we cannot afford to offend Maia — or the guests.” He paused, jaw clenched, eyes heavy with regret. There would be time to talk to Maia afterward — maybe — if she would still listen.
Because without Maia, the Morgan family was nothing more than a decorative name on a crumbling gate. The way the guests had shifted their loyalties made that brutally clear.
Ignoring Sandra’s scowl, Richard lifted the microphone from its stand and strode to the center of the courtyard.
He cleared his throat, masking the awkwardness and dissatisfaction in his voice. “Ladies and gentlemen,” he began, his voice echoing through the speakers, “thank you once again for joining us this evening. Now, we move into the highlight of our joint birthday celebration — the dance party. Please make your way to the dance floor p>
The courtyard, once a quiet garden, had been transformed into a shimmering stage. The central lawn was now covered in polished wooden flooring, forming a spacious seventy-square-yard dance area lit by warm golden string lights overhead.
At Richard’s announcement, the atmosphere shifted. Men straightened their jackets, eyes immediately darting to Maia. Every single one of them seemed poised, waiting for the right moment to approach her. Some wanted to leave an impression, others were chasing opportunity, hoping to earn Maia’s favor.
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The women were no less eager. After all, Claudius — the elusive heir of the Cooper Group — was among the guests. Rarely did he make appearances at social events, yet here he was.
Even if they couldn’t dance with Claudius, they could seize this opportunity to get to know other prominent young men.
Within moments, the courtyard divided itself into two distinct currents: one swirling around Maia, the other orbiting Claudius.
And Rosanna? She stood alone, invisible in a party thrown in her honor. Not a single hand reached for hers. No one invited her to dance. Claudius, meanwhile, remained untouched by the growing cluster of admirers. He coolly declined every offer, expression unreadable. Across the floor, Maia did the same.
Neither showed the slightest intent to join the dance.
Then someone called out, loud and gleeful, “Looks like Mr. Cooper is here for Ms. Watson p>
Another voice chimed in teasingly, “So that’s why he turned everyone else down. He’s going for Maia p>
Rosanna’s heart dropped like a stone. Her hands clenched, and she stomped her heel against the wooden flooring in a quiet tantrum. She couldn’t just stand here and watch Claudius drift toward Maia like everyone else. Perhaps he was merely caught in Maia’s temporary charm. He hadn’t yet had the chance to see her.
With a deep breath, Rosanna lifted her chin, smoothed her dress, and strode toward Claudius. A warm, practiced smile curled her lips, softening her expression. She pitched her voice delicately as she reached his side. “Mr. Cooper p>
“Move aside.” The coldness in Claudius’ voice sliced through the air before Rosanna could utter a word. He didn’t even spare her a glance as he brushed past, his eyes fixed ahead — on Maia.