Chapter 60

Harrison's strike went wide.

A strong hand clamped around her delicate wrist in an instant. The voice that followed was icy with irritation.

"Harrison, explain yourself."

The silver needle clattered to the marble floor. Recognition flashed across Harrison's face - it was Nathaniel.

Nathaniel had arrived.

"Y-you're here?" Her voice trembled.

He released her wrist, his piercing gaze sweeping the room before landing on Roland. "Who is this?"

Nathaniel had spotted Roland lurking downstairs, following Harrison, and decided to trail him.

Harrison opened her mouth when footsteps echoed outside. Her surprise for Victoria was arriving.

She yanked Nathaniel behind the heavy drapes.

"What are you-"

Her hand flew to cover his mouth as the door burst open.

"Not a sound," she breathed against his ear.

In the grand ballroom, Isabella, Theodore, Victoria and Margaret were entertaining executives. Frederick and Cassandra stood apart, shooting envious glances.

Cassandra muttered bitterly, "Penelope outshines Isabella in every way, yet Isabella plays the love game so well. Now that she's snagged Mr. Falcon, the second branch is practically untouchable."

Frederick leaned closer. "Don't worry! Penelope will find someone equal to Mr. Falcon."

They both pinned their hopes on Penelope's marriage prospects, determined she wouldn't lose to the second branch.

A bloodcurdling scream shattered the festivities.

Guests exchanged alarmed looks. "What was that?"

Victoria hid a smirk. The show was just beginning.

Isabella linked arms with her mother, grinning. "Mother, is this part of your plan?"

Victoria chuckled. "Mr. Falcon and Harrison are divorcing soon. You'll be Mrs. Falcon before long."

Isabella pouted adoringly. "You're amazing, Mother."

Victoria turned to Theodore. "Darling, you're staying with me tonight."

He pulled her close. "As long as everything goes perfectly, I'm yours."

Victoria exhaled, then addressed the crowd. "That noise came from the east wing! Let's investigate!"

The group surged forward eagerly. Frederick and Cassandra joined the procession.

A flustered maid stood outside the door - one of Victoria's accomplices.

"Madam Victoria," the maid feigned distress, "I just saw Harrison enter."

"Harrison?" someone gasped. "That country girl? Is she...compromising herself?"

The whispers swelled.

Margaret slammed her cane. "That uncultured brat would dare ruin my birthday!"

Victoria and Isabella exchanged triumphant glances. If Harrison was caught in scandal before Willowbrook's elite, her reputation would never recover.

With false concern, Victoria declared, "I can't believe Harrison would do this. I must see for myself."

She threw open the door to reveal the perfect scene.

On the lavish bed, two figures thrashed violently. Roland had a woman pinned beneath him, tearing at her clothes...