The Mysterious Billionaire and His Substitute Bride (Ethan and Janet)

Under the scrutinizing gaze of the gathering, Laney unapologetically shared her past. "I was once a bodyguard. It was only when I was employed by Janet, the lady of the White family, that I accidentally encountered Garrett."

The crowd's eyes narrowed with scorn, surveying Laney as if she were filth beneath their shoes.

Feigning shock, Kailee inquired, "A bodyguard? Surely, you mean a servant?"

Laughter erupted from the audience, clearly sharing the sentiment.

Yet, Laney remained unperturbed, sitting composed in her chair.

Witnessing Laney's tranquil demeanor despite the public ridicule, Kailee's displeasure grew as she continued to mock, "As I recall, Janet was raised by a servant. Fortuitously, she returned to the White family and wed the CEO of the Larson Group. However, her reputation has always been quite dubious. It must have been quite the task to be her bodyguard."

Laney's face darkened at the sarcastic remark. Coldly, she glared at Kailee and questioned, "What are you implying?"

"Nothing, just curious," Kailee nonchalantly replied, sipping her wine. "After all, you're the only former bodyguard present. I'm simply curious about the role, especially for someone with a tarnished reputation like Janet. Were you assisting her in evading the discovery of her infidelities and eluding the press?"

"Ha-ha." Chuckles filled the room, with someone

snickering, "No wonder Janet needs a bodyguard."

The derision intensified, their words growing crueller.

Laney's expression shifted drastically. While she could bear their comments about herself, she would not stand for them slandering Janet. "Hold your tongues! Janet is the lady of the White family and the wife of the Larson Group's CEO. If they learn of your disrespect, they won't let it slide!"

The conversation halted abruptly.

As prominent families in Barnes, the White family and the Larson Group were not to be trifled with.

Kailee was slightly mortified, as she too could not afford to provoke them. Hastily, she attempted to defuse the situation, "We were just joking. Don't take it to heart."

But Laney's icy stare suggested otherwise. "Such jests are in poor taste. Mind your manners."

"

With that, she pushed back her chair and spun around to leave, eager to escape the wretched atmosphere.

Noticing Laney's brusque exit, a malicious glint appeared in Kailee's eyes. Stealthily, she extended her foot in an attempt to trip her.

In her fury, Laney didn't notice the obstruction and stumbled, nearly falling!

At that moment, Garrett caught her, cradling her off -balance form in his arms.

"Darling, are you alright?" asked Garrett with concern.

Laney's face paled, but she clutched her belly and shook her head. "I'm fine."

Garrett was infuriated that his wife had been tormented in his brief absence. His expression darkened as he declared, "How dare you bully my wife?"

The previously jovial room fell silent, the

temperature dropping.

No one dared to cross Garrett.

Kailee hadn't anticipated Garrett's return or his fury.

Nervously, she forced a smile and stammered, "We were just... joking. We meant nothing by it..."

Garrett cut her off icily, "My wife is not here for your amusement."

Kailee's face turned ashen, her hands involuntarily clenching as her nails dug into her flesh.

She hadn't foreseen Garrett's staunch defense of Laney, nor his willingness to sever ties with everyone over a few words, disregarding their former fellowship. "You can exclude me from such gatherings in the future."

Casting a frigid glance at his former classmates, Garrett was filled with revulsion as he departed with Laney.

He never imagined his peers would become so callous and elitist over the years, particularly Kailee. Once kindhearted, she had morphed into a spiteful individual.

He couldn't stomach spending another second in such a duplicitous and repugnant environment.

As Garrett and Laney exited, the atmosphere at the party turned even more uncomfortable.

Gazing at the retreating couple, Kailee seethed with jealousy and rage.