Chapter 181
Chapter 181:
Laughter erupted around the table. Paola sat beside Johnny, sipping red wine like it was part of her routine. A small wave of pride crept across her face. Johnny looked like he was about to speak, but then Rylie walked in. Her expression stayed calm.
“Sorry I’m late. I had a surgery.” She tossed her coat over a chair and glanced around the room. “Did I miss anything interesting p>
“Quite a bit,” Isabella said, her tone sharp. “We were just saying how some people aim too high by joining the Wesdown competition p>
A young man chimed in with a smirk, “Playing the piano is an art — it takes elegance and skill, not just money.” The room erupted in laughter.
Paola waved a hand dismissively, pretending to be gracious. “Alright, everyone, let’s not be too harsh. Even though Rylie didn’t make it past the preliminaries, her courage is admirable. I’m sure she’ll succeed someday p>
Isabella laughed loudly, covering her mouth with mock shock. “Courage? Shouldn’t it be cheekiness? If it were me, I’d be too embarrassed to show my face. But some people have thick skin — failing the first round and still showing up at such a fancy event!” The laughter grew even louder.
A few rich kids exchanged amused glances. One of them even pushed a wine glass toward Rylie, silently suggesting she drink her shame away.
Johnny’s expression darkened. He set his wine glass down with a firm thud.
“That’s enough p>
The room fell silent immediately.
Johnny poured a glass of juice, walked over to Rylie, and quietly took the wine glass away. “You look tired. Don’t harm your health over this. Try some orange juice instead p>
Rylie took the glass. “Thank you p>
Johnny nodded and rested a hand lightly on the back of her chair. His gaze swept the room as he spoke. “Everyone here is my guest, and Rylie is my guest too. If anyone can’t show respect, I won’t hesitate to ask them to leave p>
No one had expected Johnny to defend her. Paola’s face stiffened as she awkwardly adjusted her dress, trying to hide the resentment in her eyes. When she looked up again, her expression softened into a polite smile. “Johnny’s right. We’re all friends here — let’s be civil p>
– check it out!
Isabella quickly changed the subject. “Weren’t we supposed to have a yacht party? When are we heading out p>
Johnny replied casually, “The yacht is ready. You can head over anytime.” He turned to Rylie. “But Miss Owen, could you wait a moment? I have a favor to ask p>
Rylie nodded. “Sure p>
Just as Johnny was about to leave with her, Paola stood up abruptly. “Johnny, where are you taking Rylie? Is this somewhere the rest of us can’t go?” All eyes turned to them, and the air grew tense with quiet speculation. Someone cracked a joke, “Are you ditching our lovely Paola for a private moment with Miss Owen? Since when did your taste change so much p>
Paola looked visibly hurt, her eyes locked on Johnny. “So this really is a private date? Maybe I shouldn’t stay here after all p>
Isabella chimed in, “Johnny, say something! You can’t seriously be planning a date with Rylie — you’ve only met her once p>
Rylie raised an eyebrow. “Now I’m curious too. What do you need my help with p>