Chapter 20

As Immanuel had been coughing and sputtering involuntarily from choking on the champagne, the outer corners of his eyes were slightly red. He frowned slightly from the uncomfortable sensation as well. When he noticed the lingering tears in Zara's eyes, he froze briefly, only for irritation to quickly replace his surprise. Wasn't she still hung up on her ex-husband? She had embraced him so openly at the banquet, so why was she meddling with him now? Was staying by his side so unbearable for her that she'd cry? Zara was unaware of his thoughts. She had descended the stairs just in time to see Immanuel recklessly drinking despite his condition. Knowing his lifelong struggle with a congenital heart condition and his strict avoidance of alcohol for 27 years, she couldn't fathom why he had suddenly decided to drink. Could this be some form of delayed rebellious streak? Her anger surged at his apparent disregard for his health. Seeing him reach for another drink, she quickly stepped in