Betrayed, But Not Defeated novel Chapter 81

Daniel stepped into the grand hall with Jennifer beside him. She was his wife in name only.

Jennifer wasn't merely Daniel's wife in name. She had previously wrested control of several of the Ashcroft family businesses. Her appearance here tonight left many people visibly surprised.

A flicker of malice flashed through Frederick's eyes.

His expression darkened even further when his gaze landed on Jennifer, whose makeup tonight was striking and bold.

Yes, Jennifer had come!

As Frederick's eyes lingered on her, a hint of astonishment betrayed his usual calm demeanor. Tonight, Jennifer had clearly taken her time dressing for the occasion. Her black evening gown accentuated her fair, flawless skin, while her bright red lips added a touch of allure that was impossible to ignore.

"Ms. Walsh, it's been a while," Frederick said smoothly, holding his wine glass as he approached her.

Jennifer turned, surprised. "Frederick? You're back?"

"That's right, I've returned," he replied with a meaningful smile. "It's a shame I missed your wedding when I went abroad."

His words were deliberate, his eyes drifting to Daniel.

But Daniel couldn't be bothered. He cast Jennifer a warning glance before heading toward Hugo, paying no mind to Frederick.

For a moment, something wild flashed in Jennifer's eyes.

She glanced at Frederick, then gave a charming smile and raised her glass to him. "That's all in the past. Why bring it up? Are you planning to settle down and build your future here in Qranross now that you're back?"

"I am," Frederick replied with a nod.

At this moment, their behavior seemed a bit flirtatious.

Jennifer had her own plans. She wanted to see if she still held any significance in Daniel's heart.

To say her motives were difficult to understand would be an understatement.

With a sharp yelp, Frederick's companion stumbled forward seemingly on accident, colliding directly into Charlene. The wine glass in her hand tipped over, spilling its contents all over Charlene's dress.

"I'm so sorry! I lost my footing," the woman stammered, looking at Charlene with a pitiful expression.

Charlene's lips pressed into a thin line. With an important contract signing and a speech ahead, she had no choice but to step away and change.

That was exactly the outcome Frederick wanted. "Look at you. You're so clumsy. Go with Ms. Geller and help her clean up."

"My sincerest apologies, Ms. Geller," Frederick said with a hint of mock concern, watching as his companion followed Charlene out of the room.

Charlene tried to pull Jennifer away as she left, but the latter deftly avoided her grasp.

When he saw this, Frederick's face lit up with excitement.

This was promising! It looked like he could humiliate Daniel in front of everyone today!