Chapter 384

Olivia's lips curled into a knowing smirk. "You'll regret those words."

A shiver ran down Natalie's spine as she caught the icy glint in Olivia's eyes. Something dangerous was unfolding. Victoria snapped at the security team, "What are you standing around for? Must I deal with this myself? Remove them immediately."

"Hold on!" A commanding voice cut through the crowd. A group approached swiftly, led by Victoria Ellington and Daniel Bennett.

Olivia hadn't spoken to Daniel in months. Since his marriage, she'd deliberately kept her distance. Seeing him now sent an uncomfortable flutter through her chest.

Daniel's expression darkened when their eyes met. He opened his mouth as if to speak, but a warning glance from Victoria silenced him.

Olivia's attention shifted to the elegant woman beside Victoria. The middle-aged woman wore stylish glasses that gave her a scholarly air.

It was clear from the sudden shift in atmosphere that this was Victoria's mother, Beatrice Ellington - the guest of honor at tonight's gala.

Beatrice withdrew her arm from Victoria Sinclair's grasp with deliberate slowness. "Enough of these ridiculous accusations! Olivia is my honored guest. Is this how we treat visitors in our home?"

Victoria Sinclair's jaw dropped before she forced a strained smile. "Beatrice, surely you can't be serious—"

Before she could finish, Beatrice turned to the guards with an impatient wave. "Can't you see she's hysterical? Probably had too much champagne. Escort her out until she regains her senses."

The security team immediately moved to usher a sputtering Victoria Sinclair away.

Murmurs spread through the crowd, confused by Beatrice's harsh treatment of her own sister.

But Olivia understood the game. Beatrice was preventing further embarrassment by cutting off Victoria Sinclair's theatrics.

This calculated move also gave Olivia an opening to establish favor, which she seized without hesitation.

With practiced grace, Olivia smiled at Beatrice. "Mrs. Ellington, there's no need for such measures. It was merely a misunderstanding."

Victoria Sinclair, however, remained oblivious to her sister's protective gesture. She struggled violently against the guards, breaking free to collapse dramatically on the marble floor. Her uncontrolled sobbing drew disapproving frowns from nearby guests.

"Yes, Mrs. Ellington, just a misunderstanding," Natalie interjected smoothly, flashing Beatrice a dazzling smile. "Mrs. Ellington, you remember me, don't you? Have you seen your birthday gifts yet? The Monet painting was from me. I must tell you, Olivia deliberately caused this scene tonight. Victoria had nothing to do with it - she's completely innocent. Poor Victoria has been distraught since the theft. Olivia simply took advantage of your kindness to target your sister. Please don't let her deceive you."

Beatrice studied Natalie with thoughtful eyes. "Ah yes, I do recall you. You gifted me that exquisite Monet. I've been collecting his works for years. Thanks to you, my collection is now complete."

Natalie's lips curved into a smug smile as she feigned humility.