Chapter 393
But Sheridan’s reputation cast a long shadow over the Carter family’s prestige.
“In all our city’s social circles, who else has the nerve to throw such a grand party for a third wedding? Honestly, have they no shame?”
“Oh, come on, that’s not fair. Sheridan may be on his third marriage, but Miss Emma’s never been married before. Of course, they want to make it a big deal.”
“Please! Emma’s first marriage? She was engaged to Mr. Shepherd, even had a child with him—though she lost it—and then he dumped her. How is that any different from a second marriage?”
“Well, there you have it. They’re a perfect match—both with a bit of baggage.”
“Haha, true enough!”
As soon as Ivy and Jamison stepped into the ballroom, they were met with a chorus of whispers and snide remarks all around them.
“You were right—there’s bound to be fireworks tonight,” Jamison murmured, leaning down to speak softly as he offered his arm to his wife.
Ivy shot him a look and whispered, “Ignore them. Remember, your back hasn’t healed yet—don’t drink anything, and keep your distance. No one bumps into you, understand?”
“Understood.” Jamison grinned, then added, “You’re taking this housekeeper role a bit too seriously, darling. I’ll have to reward you later.”
Ivy rolled her eyes. “…”
“Mr. Jamison! Welcome, glad you could make it!”
Sheridan, busy entertaining guests, spotted them and immediately broke away, greeting them with exaggerated warmth.
He barely glanced at Jamison before his gaze landed on Ivy. His eyes practically lit up as he gushed, “Mrs. Jamison, you look absolutely stunning tonight—like a goddess come down to earth!”
Most people would know better than to shower compliments on another woman at their own engagement party—especially not with their fiancée in the room.
But Sheridan made no effort to hide his admiration, clearly lost in his own little fantasy.
Jamison’s expression soured, but this wasn’t the time for jealousy.
He extended his hand for a brief shake. “Congratulations, Mr. Carter. You certainly don’t waste any time finding your next soulmate.”
Ivy had to bite her cheek to keep from laughing. Trust Jamison to never miss a beat.
Sheridan didn’t seem to mind the jab. He just laughed, replying, “When love hits, what can you do? Let me go get Emma—”
He turned to a staff member nearby. “Go, let Miss Emma know her special guests have arrived.”
Sheridan led them further inside, and the moment they moved away, the guests’ whispers grew even louder.
“That’s Jamison, isn’t it? He’s always kept to himself, never shows up at these parties. Since when is he friends with someone like Sheridan?”
“You haven’t heard? Jamison had a whirlwind wedding with Ivy. Take a look at tonight’s bride—Sheridan and Jamison are family now!”
“Seriously?”
“I thought Ivy was cut off from the Windsor family?”
“That was the Windsors trying to save face—once their eldest daughter’s reputation was ruined, they kicked her out. Now that she’s married into real money, they’re crawling back, hoping she’ll forgive them.”
“Shameless. Imagine treating your own daughter like that.”
With Jamison by her side, Ivy walked through the hall, every head turning to watch them pass.
“Tsk, so Ivy really did end up with Mr. Jamison.”
“But wasn’t she kidnapped? Lost her innocence and everything. Doesn’t Mr. Jamison care?”
“Who knows? But you’ve got to admit, Ivy’s gorgeous. Maybe even Mr. Jamison couldn’t resist.”
“I recognize that gown she’s wearing. It’s the boutique’s pride and joy—never for sale, only for display. How did Ivy get her hands on it?”
“Are you clueless? She’s Ivy—already a legend. Now that she’s married Mr. Jamison, forget about a dress; the Ludwig family could buy the whole street if they wanted.”
There hadn’t been such a buzz in the Neo Haven social scene in years. The whole city’s elite seemed abuzz with excitement and gossip, all eyes drawn by the spectacle.
Chapter 394