Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 159

Samuel hurried over to check on Serena. She sat there unperturbed, her gaze fixed ahead, showing no sign of distress. This allowed Samuel to relax slightly. He turned toward the door and addressed the newcomer, "Mr. Vance, today is a farewell party the company organized for Serena. We weren’t expecting your visit, so we haven't prepared an extra seat."

It was a clear cue for Mr. Vance to leave.

The room fell silent, with everyone exchanging uneasy glances.

Aaron's eyes darkened as he surveyed the scene, finally resting his gaze on Samuel.

"Adding a couple of chairs isn't much trouble," he replied coolly.

Cynthia Lynwood, leaning against Aaron’s shoulder, giggled, "I knew Aaron would do anything for me."

Aaron's attention shifted back to Serena, who sat there as if nothing had happened, detached from the scene unfolding around her. He withdrew his hand discreetly and moved toward her.

"Just add two more chairs here, it’s fine," Aaron directed.

Serena’s eyelids fluttered at his words, but she remained silent.

"Aaron, this is the host’s seat," Cynthia Lynwood chimed in sweetly, "Maybe the chairs should be added elsewhere?"

"Right here," Aaron insisted, his voice firm as his gaze lingered on Serena's dark hair.

Samuel attempted to intervene, "Mr. Vance—"

Aaron’s eyes flashed with authority, "If I recall correctly, I’m the largest investor in L.S. Entertainment, am I not?"

Samuel glanced uncertainly at Serena.

Obediently, Cynthia Lynwood took her place, barely containing her delighted smile. "Of course, Aaron."

Samuel cast a worried glance at Serena, who maintained her distant demeanor, seemingly unaffected by the proceedings. His concern grew, but he could do nothing but sit beside her.

Aaron’s presence brought the room’s temperature down to freezing, silencing everyone. The tension was palpable, with no one daring to break the silence.

Thankfully, the arrival of the waitstaff with steaming dishes soon lifted the mood. The aroma of the food encouraged everyone to engage in conversation again. Some even gathered the courage to chat with Cynthia Lynwood, her sweet, honeyed responses emboldening them.

"Miss Lynwood, is that a wedding ring you’re wearing? Are you and Mr. Vance married, or planning to be?" one bold soul inquired, curiosity getting the better of them.

Everyone momentarily forgot Aaron's intimidating presence beside her.

Cynthia Lynwood gave a bashful smile, "Aaron and I aren’t married."