Chapter 127

"Nion wasn't invited by Ms. Prescott," a guest announced, "but by Crown & Culture. Ms. Prescott claimed Nion came because of her invitation."

All eyes turned to Marissa. The guests, sharp as tacks, instantly grasped her ploy. They murmured, "Ms. Vanderbilt's a Nion fan. Marissa did this to curry favor. Just like Nion's assistant said, she probably begged Nion, but he ignored her."

"She promised Ms. Vanderbilt a meeting, so she had to ensure Nion's presence. Crown & Culture's invitation was a stroke of luck. She somehow learned about it and brought Ms. Vanderbilt." Janet, already annoyed by Marissa’s pushiness, added, "I sent Ms. Green the invitation two weeks ago." To expose Marissa, she nodded, "Yes, I did. I even planned an exclusive interview with Ms. Sutton, but she declined."

The guests exchanged knowing glances, their contempt barely concealed by the Vanderbilts’ influence. Diana, however, laughed, a green gemstone flashing on her finger. "She's just gotten used to lying," Diana said, glancing at Evelyn. "Don't be like her. Honesty is always best."

Evelyn agreed, "I wouldn't dare! How embarrassing!"

Kayla tried to defend Marissa, but faltered. "You… what are you talking about? Marissa wouldn't…" Marissa's face paled, her body trembling slightly in the dim light. She forced a calm voice. "I never said I invited her. Perhaps I wasn't clear."

She couldn't bring herself to say "Nion" after realizing he'd been the catalyst for her humiliation. Diana raised an eyebrow, remembering Marissa's friend's contact with Nion's assistant. "Clever," she thought. "An escape route."

Kayla stared at Marissa. "But you told me…" She wondered, 'Did I misunderstand?'

"What's wrong with me?" Marissa asked calmly.

Kayla bit her lip. 'Maybe I did misunderstand. She just wanted to help me meet my idol.'

The auction neared its end. "Ms. Vanderbilt, please join Ms. Sutton for a photo," Janet called.

Kayla, conflicted, ascended the stage, clutching her painting. Her smile felt forced. Paisley thanked her professionally. "Thank you, Ms. Vanderbilt, for your generous contribution."

Kayla finally realized Paisley had deliberately pushed her to bid so high. She expected anger, but looking at Paisley, she felt… nothing but a strange sense of awe. Is this idol worship? she thought.

Kayla tried to speak to Paisley, but Paisley ignored her, returning to the children's table. Kayla still hadn't spoken to her by the auction's close.

In the parking lot, Kayla called out, "Wait a minute!"

Lucy turned, spotting Kayla trailing Paisley. Paisley frowned. "Ignore her."

Lucy hurried ahead. Kayla blocked Paisley's path, cheeks flushed. "Don't block the way," Paisley snapped.

Kayla's eyes widened. "Are you… Nion?"

Paisley, losing patience, said, "Ms. Vanderbilt, please move."

Kayla panicked, realizing Paisley's misunderstanding. "Since you're Nion, why didn't you tell me?"