Chapter 51

David’s voice was calm but his eyes were sharp when he stopped the guards. “No need to make a scene. We don’t want people to think we’re poor hosts,” he said, slipping an arm around Marina’s trembling shoulders. The sight was unbearable. He stood there like some knight protecting her, whispering something only she could hear as he guided her away with such tenderness it made Olivia’s face darken with fury. Olivia clenched her jaw. “Protecting her? In my own house?” she muttered under her breath, her chest rising and falling with anger. Lily, however, reached out and gently held Olivia’s hand. “Mother, don’t. People are watching. If you get upset, Marina wins.” Olivia looked at Lily’s calm yet steady eyes and slowly exhaled. The anger in her chest didn’t lessen, but she knew Lily was right. With her composure gathered, she turned to her guests and smiled as if nothing had happened. Just then, a familiar voice carried over the crowd. “Mrs. Hardison, happy birthday. Wishing you health and