Standing below the stage, Lemira watched Stella's calm demeanor with the microphone and instantly felt relieved.

After all, just last night, Stella had been in tears over today's events.

But today, she had pulled herself together.

Seeing Lemira in the audience, Stella's nerves subsided.

For her entire life, Stella had never stood up to her family, always obeying Edith's every command. She had thought changing boyfriends would be a simple matter, but she was met with a harsh scolding from Edith.

It was only then that Stella realized Edith wasn't as kind to her as she had believed.

The moment she went against Edith's wishes, Edith's entire demeanor changed.

If that was the case, she would no longer be a puppet on a string.

The once lively atmosphere grew cold.

Everyone present had just been introduced to Asher as the Waverlys' future son-in- law, with Mrs. Waverly personally taking him around.

How could Stella suddenly claim they were just friends?

Mrs. Waverly's smile froze on her face. She looked at Stella and whispered harshly, "What kind of tantrum are you throwing?"

But Stella pretended not to hear. Speaking into the microphone, she said cheerfully, "Thank you all for coming to my birthday party. Please eat, drink, and enjoy yourselves."

With that, she walked off the stage. Mrs. Waverly hurried after her. "Stop right there!"

Stella was blocked.

Mrs. Waverly turned her back to the crowd and faced Stella. "Have you grown wings now? What's wrong with Asher? Haven't you two always gotten along well?"

"But I told you I don't like him anymore. You're the one who wouldn't agree."

Mrs. Waverly was furious. "Was it because of something Lemira told you? Why would you believe her over your boyfriend, Asher?"

"Edith, I have my own eyes. Besides, if I get engaged to him, my shares will be transferred to him to manage the company's affairs. I am not willing to do that."

Stella knew it was Edith who wanted the shares; Asher was just a pawn.

She hadn't been idle these past few days and had uncovered the likely agreement between Edith and Asher.

Mrs. Waverly wanted to say more, but Stella pushed past the people blocking her and walked away.

This time, no one dared to stop her.

Lemira watched as Stella, now the

center

of

attention, walked over in

her beautiful dress.

velnet

Congratulations." Content gs"

"Thanks."

SWI

But Asher quickly approached them. "Stella, is there some kind of misunderstanding between us?"

Asher had waited so long for this moment.

He had endured all the mockery about marrying into her family.

But in the end, Stella had slapped him in the face.

Evelina, also worried, quickly added, "Ms. Waverly, did Asher do something to upset you?"

"Looks like you have some self-awareness. It's because I can't stand you."

Stella didn't spare Evelina's feelings in the slightest.

Evelina's eyes immediately reddened. Evander at her side spoke up. "What does this have to do with our Eve?"

Stella's words were blunt. "Because I don't like the atmosphere in your Langston family."

A family full of favoritism.

Just then, Mrs. Waverly walked over. "Stella, it's time for you to go back to your room and change."

They couldn't afford to make a scene out here; it would only bring shame to the Waverlys.

Lemira stepped forward and linked her arm with Stella's. "Let's go. I'll go with you."

Mrs. Waverly glanced at Lemira but said nothing.

The two room

urned to the dressing into here Stella quickly changed

into a different outfit and had her look touched up.

No one disturbed them during this time.

After changing, Stella walked out to find the crowd parting. Asher was

pushing a large cake towards he

with people around them singing and cheering.

Lemira stood to the side, watching the scene with a cold glint in her eyes.

No wonder Asher hadn't come in earlier. He was busy preparing this.