Chapter 42
To avoid dampening Linda’s spirits, Sage did as instructed,
Before reaching the spot, she was captivated by a blooming orchid by the side. She bent down and sniffed it. The wonderful fragrance caused her features to relax instantly, and a gentle smile graced her lips.
Sunlight shone on Sage’s delicate face as she leaned toward the pristine orchid.
Ian couldn’t decide whether the flower or the woman was more beautiful. Almost
instinctively, he captured the scene with his phone.
After an afternoon of leisure activities, the dinner banquet finally commenced.
The family of 20 gathered around a table, which created a harmonious
atmosphere.
Linda and Aiden Holcomb, Ian’s great uncle, were not as energetic compared to
the middle–aged and young people present. Thus, they ended up leaving early.
Ian found himself surrounded by his uncles, while Sage assisted Linda and saw
her off.
As she watched the car disappear into the distance, Sage decided against returning to feign affection with Ian and wandered around the surroundings
instead.
As dusk settled, colorful lights illuminated the garden and created a unique
ambiance. Sage strolled toward a secluded area near a small forest. It was quieter than the front, and two guards stood outside a private room.
Sage tactfully halted her steps. When she was heading back to where she came from, she noticed a slim man leading a group of young girls to the private room.
The man sternly warned, “Be mindful when serving our distinguished guest later. Or else, you’ll have to face the consequences!”
One of the girls with an attractive figure cautiously said, “I’m not feeling well today. Can I skip drinking?”
“Nonsense! It’s just drinking! Where do you think the money came from for you
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to afford such an expensive phone and clothes? Keep Mr. Xenith happy, and your prosperous days will follow!”
Upon hearing the name “Mr. Xenith,” Sage instinctively glanced toward the
private room they entered. The door happened to open at that moment. It revealed three men respectfully toasting the slightly chubby man occupying the main seat.
The latter looked familiar; Sage had seen his photos quite a few times recently. He was none other than Benjamin, the manager of Mimosa.
After the slim man led the girls into the private room, the one with the best figure was pushed to sit on Benjamin’s lap. “Hurry and greet Mr. Xenith!”
“Mr. Xenith,” the girl nestled in Benjamin’s arms coquettishly called.
“Hello, my little princess. I haven’t seen you in a few days, and you’ve become even more beautiful. Do you miss me?” Benjamin said before kissing the girl on
the face.
The others at the table seemed accustomed to such behavior. They erupted into laughter and cheers.
As the door closed, Sage was in utter shock.
Benjamin was well–known for his enthusiasm for charity and his deep love for his wife. So, why would he engage in such lewd behavior with a young girl?
Moreover, judging from his actions, it appeared that this wasn’t the first time.
“Who’s out there?” Suddenly, one of the guards outside the private room shouted.
Not daring to linger, Sage quickly left. She hurried back to the garden. She looked back but saw that no one was chasing her. Only then did she breathe a sigh of
relief.
Just as she turned around, she collided forcefully with a solid chest.
Sage was both startled and in pain. She instinctively covered her nose with a hiss.
“Are
you okay?” Ian asked while attempting to inspect her nose for any injuries.
Cautiously, Sage took a step back.
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Ian had probably had a bit to drink, as his handsome face was slightly flushed. His dark eyes glinted. They looked oddly alluring in the dimly lit night.
