31 Chapter 33
Chapter 33 – Julian’s Falled Ploy and a Sterling Revelation
“It’s not just any bracelet, Julian’s voice took on a persuasive edge as he leaned in closer. “It’s white jade, and you know how much Ivy believes in alternative healing. Let me buy it from you. I’ll pay well above market value.”
I looked at him with disbelief. The audacity of this man was truly astounding.
“Julian, that bracelet belonged to my mother. It’s the only thing I have left of her. My voice was tight with anger. “I wouldn’t sell it to you for all the money in the world, let alone give it to Ivy.”
He reached into his jacket and pulled out a checkbook. “I’m prepared to offer you five million for it. That’s more than generous.”
“Did you not hear what I just said?” I stepped back, my hands trembling with rage. “It’s not for sale”
Julian sighed, putting the checkbook away. “I had a feeling you might be difficult about this. So here’s another proposition.” His eyes narrowed. “I know you’re indebted to Damien Sterling. I can help you pay off that debt–three hundred million. All I ask in return is that you cut ties with him.”
The room seemed to go silent. I stared at Julian, processing what he’d just proposed.
“Excuse me?”
“You heard me. Three hundred million. You’ll be free of any obligation to Sterling” He smiled as if he’d just offered me salvation. “Let’s be honest, Hazel. A man like Sterling doesn’t get involved with someone like you without ulterior motives. He’s playing with
you.
My blood boiled. “Someone like me? What exactly am I, Julian?”
“You know what I mean. He comes from an entirely different world. Old money, immense power. Men like him don’t settle down with-”
“With what?” I cut him off, “With someone you deemed disposable? Is that it?”
Julian had the decency to look uncomfortable. “I’m trying to protect you.”
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“Security escorted him from the building,” I confirmed. “But that’s not why I’m calling. I need to raise some capital for my aunt’s business. Wesley’s been pressuring me for
money,”
Victoria’s tone softened. “How much do you need?”
“I was thinking we could find some investors together. My aunt’s business has solid fundamentals–she just needs to buy out her husband’s family’s shares. About twenty million should do it.”
“Consider it done. I’ll call a few people right away. And Hazel? Don’t let Julian get under your skin. He’s pathetic.”
After hanging up, I felt steadier. With Victoria’s help, I managed to secure the funding for my aunt within days. Seeing the relief on her face when I told her she could finally be free of her in–laws‘ control was worth every effort.
“I don’t know how to thank you,” she said, tears in her eyes.
“You don’t have to. Family helps family–real family, not people who use each other like
Julian and his lot.”
With that situation resolved, I turned my attention to the bespoke outfits I’d been creating for Mrs. Sterling. The collection was my finest work yet–elegant, timeless pieces that reflected her refined taste while incorporating subtle modern elements.
The divorce proceedings with Julian had officially begun, and despite his threats, my lawyer assured me we had a strong case. It felt liberating to finally sever that last tie to my old life.
When the day came to deliver Mrs. Sterling’s outfits to Sterling Heights Estate, I decided to go personally rather than send an assistant. I wanted to ensure everything was perfect, and honestly, I enjoyed visiting the estate. There was something peaceful about the sprawling grounds and the dignified old house that made me feel both small and significant at the same time.
Mrs. Sterling greeted me warmly in the sunroom, where tea had been laid out.
“Hazel, dear, how lovely to see you.” Her smile was genuine as she gestured for me to sit. “I’ve been looking forward to seeing what you’ve created.”
I carefully laid out each outfit, explaining the design choices and materials. Her eyes lit
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up with appreciation.
“These are exquisite,” she said, running her fingers over the fabric of a slate–blue
dinner dress. “You’ve captured exactly what I wanted, but made it so much more than I imagined.”
“I’m glad you like them,” I replied, feeling a flush of pride.
“Like them? I adore them. She rang a small silver bell, and a maid appeared. “Please have these taken to my dressing room.”
After the clothes were whisked away, Mrs. Sterling poured tea for both of us. “I hope you’ll stay for lunch. I’ve arranged something special.”
“That’s very kind of you, but I don’t want to impose.”
“Nonsense. I’ve specially invited Chef Lin from The Imperial Garden today, knowing how fond you are of his cooking.”
I nearly dropped my teacup, “Chef Lin? But he rarely cooks outside his restaurant. How did you know I-”
Mrs. Sterling’s eyes twinkled. “Damien mentioned it was your favorite. He’s quite. observant about things that bring you joy!”
I sat there, stunned. Damien had noticed my preference for Chef Lin’s cooking? And he’d mentioned it to his mother, who had gone to the trouble of arranging this special meal just for me?
“I… I don’t know what to say,” I stammered, genuinely touched by the consideration.
“Say nothing. Just enjoy lunch with me,” Mrs. Sterling replied, her expression warm and welcoming. “I think you’ll find that in this family, we pay attention to the details. that matter.
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