Chapter 122
It wasn’t just her looks. It was the quiet confidence and elegance she radiated. “You’re stunning,” Ethan added sincerely. Even the usually quiet Zachary said, “Beautiful.” Bowen offered his hand like a gentleman. “Miss, may I take you to dinner?” No one disliked genuine compliments. Aubree smiled and placed her hand in his. “I suppose I’ll give you a chance.” The restaurant had been reserved in advance. Bowen had spared no expense. He’d booked out Rithol City’s most prestigious hotel, located atop the city’s tallest building, offering a panoramic view of the entire skyline. He led Aubree to the door and then stopped. Just as she turned to ask why, he looked at her with a soft smile. “Go ahead.” Bowen released her hand and motioned toward the entrance. Aubree pushed open the door. Confetti cannons went off, and colorful ribbons floated down from the ceiling. “Happy birthday, Aubree!” “Not fair! You didn’t tell us it was your birthday!” “Seriously, Miss Miller, next time you owe us a round of bonuses!” “You… all of you…” Aubree was speechless. Matilda, Alvin, her teammates from the esports club, and her colleagues from the company were all here. Bowen had invited everyone who mattered to her. “Aubree, I thought we were friends,” Matilda said dramatically, waving the gift box in her hand. “Guess I was wrong.” She pretended to take the gift back. Knowing she was teasing, Aubree snatched it and hugged it tightly. “You were already planning to give it. No takebacks!” Matilda laughed. Alvin shoved a box at her awkwardly. “If it weren’t for Uncle Bowen…” He was still the same proud, awkward guy. Aubree smiled. “Thanks, Mr. Turner. And thanks to your uncle for convincing you to show up.” Alvin’s ears turned red. “Whatever.” Her teammates crowded around, each presenting gifts. The core staff from her company didn’t bother with presents. “Miss Miller, here’s our gifts!”
Back at the Wilson family mansion, the party was in full swing. As one of Rithol City’s elite families, their name carried weight. Even though it was just a foster daughter’s birthday, plenty of big names from business, politics, and entertainment had shown up. A-list celebrities were the lowest tier of guests. When the event began, Ronald announced that Aubree was absent due to health issues. Whether or not it was true didn’t matter. Nobody was here for a heartfelt birthday celebration anyway. Among the guests, Emery sneered coldly. His father was still deluded enough to think a shiny facade could cover the damage Aubree had done to their family. While Ronald was still speaking, Emery stood up and walked out in front of everyone. Emery’s abrupt exit immediately sparked a wave of hushed whispers among the distinguished guests. Ronald’s face turned stormy, but he forced a smile and carried on. No matter what happened, the Wilson family had to maintain face tonight. As his speech ended, Carmen descended the staircase in a designer gown. In that moment, she was every inch the pampered princess, dazzlingly radiant as she commanded the room’s attention. “Carmen, I have a gift for you,” Daxton announced. The party was being held on the estate’s massive lawn. As he finished, dazzling lights shot into the sky. Fireworks exploded above, and guests all looked up. Daxton continued, “I want all of Rithol City to know that today is your birthday.” The sky lit up with brilliant bursts. Even among this crowd of the rich and powerful, the display was breathtaking. People around Carmen were full of admiration. They envied her status, her family, and her brothers. She lifted her chin proudly, basking in it all. She was the star. She was the beloved little princess of the Wilson family. But just then… “Wait… doesn’t that firework say ‘Aubree, happy birthday’?” Someone shouted in shock. The first firework spelled out “Aubree.” The ones that followed had messages using various nicknames like Miss Miller and Bree. No matter the nickname, the message was clear. These fireworks were for Aubree. Carmen’s face turned pale.