I thought that after our last encounter, Rhett and I wouldn't cross paths again. However, the Larson family sent an invitation for Royce's eightieth birthday celebration, and my parents were conveniently traveling abroad. The elders of the Larson family had always been generous towards me, and considering the close ties between our families, I couldn't decline and had to attend.
Midway through the banquet, seeking a respite from the lively crowd, I made my way to the terrace for some air. As I turned, I unexpectedly collided with someone. A sharp crash echoed as a porcelain piece toppled to the floor. The antique Victorian vase shattered, its fragments scattering at my feet. Looking up, I was met with Rhett's furious gaze, his right arm in a sling.
Elaine, standing beside him, gasped and covered her mouth. "Giovanna, you can be so careless! This vase from the Victorian Era was something Rhett specifically found for Grandpa Royce. There are fewer than ten of them in the world."
As soon as she finished speaking, murmurs swept through the crowd.
"That was a priceless antique. Giovanna's really reckless."
"I heard Rhett had been planning this birthday gift for months. Now it's ruined. Such a shame."
Reid barged through the gathering onlookers, shouting angrily, "Giovanna Woods, first you left Rhett in harm's way, and now you've ruined Grandpa Royce's gift. You're truly heartless!"
His accusation sparked a wave of whispers:
"Giovanna grew up with Rhett, how could she act so cold-hearted at a family event?"
"If you ask me, she should be shown the door before she causes more embarrassment."
Rhett sneered, his disdain clear. "Giovanna, how many more stunts do you have planned? Do you think this will make me pay more attention to you? It's pathetic."
In the next moment, he seized my neck with his left hand, his voice seething with anger. "Three hundred thousand dollars. I expect ten times that—three million—or I won't let this slide."
I struggled as his grip tightened further.
Elaine used the opportunity to pretend she was intervening while delivering another jab, "Rhett, don't be mad. I'm sure Giovanna didn't mean to do it. Maybe she was just desperate for your attention..."
Before she could finish, Rhett shoved me away forcefully. I stumbled back several steps, nearly losing my balance.
"Giovanna, I warned you not to bother me again!" His eyes were cold, as if he found me utterly repulsive.
Elaine approached me with her innocent act, soothingly saying, "Giovanna, get up. As a woman of standing, you shouldn't cling to Rhett and embarrass yourself..."
Yet, just as she was about to touch me, she dramatically fell backwards, landing on the floor.
"Sister, I was trying to help you up. Why did you push me?"
The banquet hall erupted instantly. Insults rushed towards me like a tidal wave.
Rhett, barely steady on his feet, helped Elaine up, ensuring she was unharmed before he turned to face me, expression dark. He raised his left hand and slapped me hard.
"Giovanna, have you lost your mind?!"
