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Chapter Two Hundred and Ninety-Seven

Author: Anney GW
last update Last Updated: 2025-12-01 10:39:22
Celeste’s POV

Everyone began taking their seats as the lights softened over the grand ballroom.

My palms were damp, but I kept them folded neatly in my lap, my expression calm, even bored, though my pulse beat hard under my collarbone.

Ryan leaned close to whisper, “Whatever happens, I’m right beside you.”

I gave him a small smile, but before I could answer, a familiar perfume drifted over us.

Vanessa.

She glided toward me like she already had a crown on her head, holding onto her belly gently.

I would have been more soft-hearted if it was any other woman, pregnant or not, but this was Vanessa.

She never let go of any opportunity to shoot me down.

So now, I wouldn’t stop either.

Her gown shimmered, and that smug little half-smile sat on her face as if she were doing me a favor by showing it.

“Well,” she said, stopping directly in front of me, “I hope you’re ready.”

“For what?” I asked, blinking up at her with feigned innocence.

“For tonight,” she replied, her voice almost purring. “Thi
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Comments (3)
goodnovel comment avatar
Carolyn Dillon Ross
I was just before giving up on any vindication in this story.
goodnovel comment avatar
RW7
I meant Celeste
goodnovel comment avatar
RW7
Thank God! Claire deserved a break but I really thought you were going to give this to Vanessa
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