Chapter 18
Inside Jenvil’s most exclusive private club, the air shimmered with elegance-fine gowns, polished shoes, and champagne flutes clinking softly amidst murmured conversations.
The moment Sebastian walked in with Jasmine on his arm, the room shifted. All eyes turned to them.
“Is that the Lane family’s heiress?”
“I heard she just returned from Horinton and will marry Mr. Campbell soon.”
“She’s stunning. No wonder she’s the Lane family’s heiress.”
Whispers swirled around them like smoke, but Jasmine stayed poised. Her hand rested gracefully on Sebastian’s arm, and her lips curved in a polite smile.
“Are you nervous?” he asked softly.
She shook her head. “I’ve been worse.”
He chuckled. “As expected of my fiancée.”
There was unmistakable pride in Christopher’s voice. His easy praise sent a flicker of warmth through her
chest.
Midway through the banquet, a sudden stir rippled through the entrance. Jasmine turned toward the commotion, and her pupils contracted sharply.
Lynette strutted in on the arm of a middle-aged man, her posture smug and deliberately attention- seeking. She wore a glittering, revealing sequined gown and heavy makeup that clashed violently with her
usual innocent persona.
As for the man beside her, Jasmine recognized him instantly. Joseph Payne, the infamous real estate tycoon in Jenvil, was ruthless and powerful, with deep ties on both sides of the law.
“Interesting,” Sebastian remarked, his eyes squinting. “He has actually brought her here.”
Jasmine’s grip on her champagne glass tightened. “I guess she’s burned all her bridges in Horinton and
came running to Jenvil to find a new patron.”
Across the room, Lynette scanned the crowd until her gaze landed squarely on Jasmine. Her red lips
curled into a taunting smile as she pulled Joseph in their direction.
“It’s been a while, Mr. Campbell,” Joseph boomed, his voice gruff but practiced. His eyes didn’t bother hiding their interest in Jasmine. “And who might this lovely lady be?”
Sebastian subtly stepped to the side, blocking Joseph’s lingering gaze from falling on Jasmine. “Allow me to introduce my fiancee, Jasmine Lane.”
Joseph grinned widely, flashing a row of gold-capped teeth. “Oh, so you’re the famous Lane family’s heiress. I heard you founded a company in Horinton. What a shame…”
Jasmine stared straight at him. “Why?”
“You’re about to lose your standing soon,” Lynette interjected with her sweet voice. “In case you didn’t know, all your little ventures in Horinton are in utter chaos now.”
A cold laugh escaped from Jasmine’s lips. “Oh? Is that why someone ran all the way to Jenvil for shelter like a stray mutt?”
Lynette’s face twisted. She was about to lash out when Joseph patted her hand. “Relax, babe.”
He turned to Sebastian. “I heard you’re planning to invest in film projects in Horinton, Mr. Campbell. What a coincidence. I happen to have a few connections in that-“‘
“No, thanks,” Sebastian coldly interrupted him. “Campbell Group doesn’t work with shell companies.”
Joseph’s expression dimmed. “What does that mean?”
“Exactly what you think I mean.” Sebastian wrapped an arm around Jasmine’s waist and said, “Excuse us.”
Once they were far enough away, Jasmine leaned in slightly and asked in a low voice, “How did he end up tangled with Lynette?”
“Payne Group’s been acquiring land in Horinton recently, likely through Timothy’s connections,” Sebastian
analyzed calmly.
She frowned. “They teamed up?”
“Nothing to worry about. They’re just clowns putting on a show,” he remarked scornfully. “Still, for Lynette to show her face in Jenvil and challenge you so openly means someone powerful is backing her.”
Just then, a waiter rushed over. “Mr. Campbell, there’s an urgent call from Horinton.”
Sebastian went to take the call, leaving Jasmine to step out onto the balcony for some fresh air.
The night breeze was cool, but no sooner had she settled than the sharp click of heels sounded behind
her.
“Oh, Jasmine…”
Lynette appeared, a wicked smile curling on her lips. “You really thought coming back here meant you’ve
won?”
Jasmine turned to face her, eyes cold. She remembered what Charles had told her earlier, that the police had evidence against Lynette for embezzlement.
“Hey, Lynette. Hasn’t the police come to have a little talk with you yet?”
Lynette smirked, flicking the
one call.”
“So, you’ve got yourself a new sugar daddy?” Jasmine mocked. “From Timothy and Matthew to Joseph Payne… Wow, you sure know how to pick ’em.”
Lynette’s face flushed red. “Easy…”
She dropped her voice, threatening through gritted teeth, “Don’t think you’re untouchable just because you’ve got the Campbells backing you. Joseph said he’s gonna wipe out your business in Horinton overnight!”
Jasmine was about to retort when the balcony door suddenly swung open.
Joseph strolled in, a cigar clenched between his teeth, two burly bodyguards following close behind.
“Ms. Lane,” he drawled and puffed out smoke rings, his gaze leering, “how about a little private chat between you and me?”
