Chapter 346
Summer’s POV
The cream–colored invitation to William Stark’s birthday celebration felt heavy in my hands as I smoothed my fingers over the embossed lettering. Brandon had tossed it onto the coffee table days ago like it was junk mail, but the elaborate card screamed ‘important to anyone who knew anything about New York society.
From our car window, I watched Alexander’s father gesturing emphatically at the entrance to the Stark mansion, his face flushed with frustration as he argued with the impassive doorman. Alexander stood behind him, shoulders slumped in a suit that seemed a size too large, looking like he’d rather be anywhere else.
“They’re trying to get into the inner reception,” Brandon explained, barely glancing up from his phone. “Outer reception is for business associates and distant relatives. Inner reception’is for William’s honored guests.”
“And they didn’t make the cut?” I asked, unable to hide my satisfaction.
“Apparently not.”
The contrast was almost painful to watch–Alexander’s father desperate to get inside, while his son withered under the weight of comparing himself to Brandon, the golden heir of the Stark empire.
“We should head in,” Brandon said, tucking his phone away. “James is already waiting for us.”
His phone rang just as we were about to exit. Brandon answered with a clipped “What is it?”
I could hear Sean’s voice even without speakerphone. “Dude, where the hell are you? The party’s already started!” His excited tone made me instantly suspicious.
“What’s going on?” Brandon asked, eyes narrowing.
“Oh man, you’re going to love this,” Sean laughed. “You’ll never guess who showed up with an inner reception invitation. It’s going to be quite the show today.”
Brandon’s posture stiffened. “Alexander? Who gave him an invitation?
“Exactly! How did Alexander-” Sean’s voice cut off as Brandon’s expression darkened.
“I’ll handle it,” Brandon said coldly before ending the call.
His eyes met mine with that dangerous glint I’d come to recognize. Ready?”
I nodded, smoothing down my pale blue silk gown. We’d spent the afternoon at Brandon’s preferred stylist, and the result was worth it–I hardly recognized the elegant woman in the mirror.
James opened my door as we arrived. “Mrs. Stark, Mr. Stark,” he greeted with a slight bow. Brandon’s hand at the small of my back felt reassuring as James followed with our gift–the antique timepiece from Christie’s.
As we approached the entrance, my body tensed. This wasn’t just any event–this was my official debut as Brandon’s wife in front of the entire Stark family, including Victoria and Alexander.
Having second thoughts?” Brandon asked quietly.
I shook my head. ‘No, it’s just… some things you have to face eventually.”
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Chapter 346
“Good,” he said warmly.
“They’re still part of my identity,” I added, “no matter how much I wish they weren’t.”
Brandon’s fingers tightened slightly. “I know. But we’re still going to investigate exactly how they got in.”
The walk to the inner reception felt endless. Every few steps, someone approached Brandon–executives, politicians, celebrities–all eager for his attention. Each introduction brought the same reaction when they realized who I was: shock, confusion, then hastily composed politeness.
The whispers followed us everywhere: “Who is, she?” “Did Brandon Stark actually get married?” “Why wasn’t this announced?”
When we entered the inner feception, a complete silence fell. The room, filled with New York’s elite, froze as all eyes turned to us.
Victoria stood with a group of women, her practiced smile faltering when she saw us. Beside her, Alexander looked thunderstruck, his mouth slightly open.
Brandon guided me deeper into the room, his custom black suit the perfect counterpoint to my light dress. I could practically see Alexander’s thoughts: They’re perfect together. The realization must have stung, considering his hasty abandonment of me for Victona.
“Brandon! It’s about time you showed up!” Sean’s voice broke the tension. “It’s your grandfather’s birthday party, and you–the host- are fashionably late?”
Brandon merely raised an eyebrow.
Sean grinned at me. “Mrs. Stark, you look absolutely stunning tonight!”
“Thank you,” I smiled back. “You’re looking pretty sharp yourself, Dr. Sean.”
“Whoa!” Sean laughed. “Complimenting other men right in front of your husband? Bold move, Summer!”
Jesse Turner approached next, immaculate in a navy suit. “Mr. Stark, Mrs. Stark,” he greeted with a polite nod. “It’s been a while.”
“Mr. Turner,” I responded warmly.
“Mr. Turner, Brandon echoed, subtly pulling me closer. Despite knowing Jesse was no threat, Brandon’s possessive streak was showing.
Around us, whispers intensified: “Brandon Stark married?” “Who is she?” “How did something this big stay secret?”
Victoria headed straight for us, champagne in hand. “Summer!” she exclaimed with false enthusiasm. “I can’t believe you re here!”
“Likewise,” I replied coolly. “I don’t recall telling you about my relationship with Brandon.”
Victoria’s smile tightened. “Well, I’m here with my husband. You remember Alexander is part of the Stark family, right? Really, Summer, you should have told us about the wedding! My brother–in–law-
‘Brother–in–law?” I interrupted. “I think you might have that relationship wrong.”
What do you mean? You’re my sister, so Brandon is my brother–in–law. He is your husband, isn’t he?”
“Looking at it that way, I suppose you’re right, I conceded. “But since Alexander is a Stark family member, according to family hierarchies, you should actually be calling Brandon Uncle and me ‘Aunt. Alexander is quite a few levels below Brandon in the Tamily tree.
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Chapter 346
Victoria went pale, her fingers tightening around her glass. I… I had no idea about your marriage to… Mr. Stark. Besides, Alexander and I married first.”
“That’s another misunderstanding,” I replied smoothly. “Brandon and were already married when you were still engaged. According to Alexander’s position in the Stark family, you should address me as Aunt.
“Summer, you-” Victoria sputtered.
“I just don’t understand why you wouldn’t tell your family,” she shifted tactics. “What about Mom and Dad? And Grandpa George? He’s always been so good to you!”
“Oh, Grandpa George and Grandfather Thompson both know, I smiled. “We had dinner together to celebrate. I guess you were too busy with your career to know. We haven’t held the reception yet, though. You’ll definitely be invited. Just make sure your gift is
generous.”
“O–of course,” Victoria managed through gritted teeth. “You’re my only sister, after all.“,
For a moment, I actually pitied her. This Victoria seemed cornered, outmaneuvered by a version of me she’d never encountered before.
As Victoria retreated, Brandon watched me with unmistakable pride.
“Thank you,” I said, answering his unspoken compliment.
Lowering my voice, I asked, “Who let Victoria and Alexander in here?
Before he could answer, James appeared beside us. “Sir, I have the information you requested.”
“And?” Brandon prompted.
“It’s confirmed, sir.”
Brandon nodded. “Have them detained for now. We’ll address it later!
“Yes, sir,” James replied, disappearing swiftly.
“What was that about?” I asked.
“Nothing important,” Brandon deflected.
“You still haven’t told me about Victoria and Alexander,” I pressed. Someone from the Stark family let them in, didn’t they?”
“Yes,” Brandon confirmed, “but don’t worry. They can’t touch you. I won’t let them.”
“I know,” I said softly. “But if I’m not doing this right, promise you’ll stay beside me.”
Brandon’s eyes locked with mine, his gaze intense and unwavering. I always be by your side. Always.”
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