Chapter 42

Maria broke out in a cold sweat and hung up instantly, her eyes darting nervously. “It was just one of Ella’s new friends,” she said quickly. Her reaction was way too fishy. James frowned. “A friend’s a friend, why the panic?” Maria’s mind raced. “David is there too. I didn’t want him to overhear and misunderstand.” The moment she said David’s name, James instantly lost interest and said coldly, “George Parker asked us to dinner.” “Okay,” she replied, following behind him, inhaling deeply to calm her nerves. Thank God he didn’t figure it out. If he had found out about Ethan, everything would’ve gone to hell. When the auction wrapped up, everyone started to leave. The once-bustling banquet hall was now quiet, littered with empty plates and half-full glasses. The silence was almost uncomfortable. But inside the private room was a different vibe. Besides George Parker, a few execs from his company were there. Not many people, but the table was covered in food—way too much. Maria took one