Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism
Chapter 518 Heart to Heart

Lance asked, "Hey, do you think Mr. Weekley will drink the wine she offers him?"

Eugene scoffed in disdain and said, "Well, some think dying for love is a romantic way to go. Mr. Weekley's reputation in Wiltonshire is notorious for his wild escapades. I doubt he'd turn her down." Lance disagreed, saying, "But you never know. Foreign girls are different from Evelina. What if she's not his type?"

Eugene shrugged and said, "We'll see. If I win, you'll tell me where Mason's lounge is and save me the effort to search every room for him later."

Lance agreed, "Deal. I bet he won't drink."

They both watched Evelina as she approached Jasper with a drink.

From their angle, they could only see Evelina's bashful expression; Jasper's reaction remained hidden, just the back of his head in view.

They could only make educated guesses about the conversation.

About thirty seconds later, Evelina said something to Jasper. She clinked her glass against his, and Jasper tilted his head back, dropping the drink.

Lance had lost the bet.

Eugene had emerged victorious.

He smirked and teased, "See? I've seen enough of this industry to know for sure. Ninety-nine percent of men won't refuse a woman throwing herself at them, especially someone of his status. Even if something happens between them, it'd be a "blessing" for Evelina. I'm heading to the restroom. Remember our deal, text me Mason's room." Eugene put down his glass and walked off.

Though slightly surprised, Lance wasn't too hung up on the outcome and didn't dwell on it.

Meanwhile, at Fortuna Estate.

Today, the entire estate had been reserved for Frida's birthday celebration, which also doubled as a meeting with the in-laws.

The subtle fragrance of tea lingering in the air and the beautifully landscaped greenery outside enhanced the estate's serene and elegant environment.

By a carved wooden window, Violeta stood dressed in a beige dress with a jacket over her shoulders. She leaned against the window, holding her phone and a limited edition Hermès key bag that dangled from her arm. Not long after, Irene turned the corner.

"Vio."

Violeta put away her phone and smiled at Irene. She said, "Mom."

She handed the bag to Irene, who took it with a gentle reminder. "I told you to go inside. Why are you waiting here? Isn't it windy when you stand by the window?"

When they arrived, Irene had gone to the restroom while the others went inside, leaving Violeta waiting for her.

Violeta looped her arm through Irene's. She said, "It's fine; I wanted to wait for you."

Irene patted Violeta's hand affectionately and said gently, "Vio, when did you and Hade start dating?"

The gathering today was supposedly to celebrate Frida's birthday.

Although Irene knew the real reason, they were likely planning to reveal that Violeta and Hayden were in a relationship.

With both of them busy with their careers, they rarely saw each other.

Since Hayden's transfer back to Quinston, they'd been in contact more often, and it was clear they were serious. Yet, their meetings had always been secretive, like spies meeting in secret.

"Just recently, after he got back from Quinston."

Violeta began to tell Irene about how she and Hayden started.

As Irene listened, her heart filled with joy.

She and Anton had practically watched Hayden grow up.

He was as impeccable in character as he was in appearance.

Hayden was the perfect choice from any angle, especially from a mother's perspective.

For Irene, her daughter replaceing a match in Hayden was a dream come true.

Honestly, Irene had always been worried that Violeta might choose someone from the entertainment industry.

A man who previously worked in a

chaotic industry might not have the best intentions, both in terms of their backgrounds and their genuine character.

A man could pretend to be honorable and still hide his true colors, making it difficult to tell what

swnove

kind of person he rea

Irene feared that someone unworthy might deceive and take advantage of her precious daughter.

The corridor was quiet as the mother and daughter, arms linked, walked toward the tea room at the end.

As they walked, Irene spoke with the wisdom only a mother could impart.

"Vio, your father and I have never pressured you about these things. We've always wanted to keep you close to us for a few more years. You have all the time in the world to replace a partner you truly love. As long as you're happy, that's all we care about."