Chapter 1278:

The same people who had been whispering only moments before now stood frozen, mouths open in disbelief.

Kari’s face flushed a deep, burning red—then drained of color entirely.

Several musicians who had previously worked with Rylie under the name X. Aria stepped forward as well, lending their voices to Ron’s without hesitation. One after another, they recounted her achievements, ensuring every detail reached every corner of the hall. Each accomplishment mentioned was remarkable enough to humble even those who considered themselves the elite of the room.

Finally, Ron turned to Kari, anger blazing openly in his eyes. “And yet you chose to publicly insult a distinguished guest—someone you personally invited.”

An elderly gentleman sighed heavily and shook his head. “In seventy years, I’ve encountered my share of rude behavior. But to watch someone like Kari openly defame a world-renowned artist in front of a gathering like this…” He paused, his eyes heavy with disappointment. “That is something I have never witnessed before.”

Ron pressed on, his voice firm. “If she truly caused your fiancé’s injury, then present the evidence. Accusations alone mean nothing. The Eshea military used body cameras during that mission—there should be recordings. Perhaps they would reveal what actually happened. What if someone else is responsible?”

Kari stood frozen, her face white as paper, the stares around her sharp enough to cut.

The people who had supported her earlier now seemed entertained. Some whispered behind their hands; others didn’t bother hiding their laughter at all.

𝘛hous𝗮𝗇𝖽𝗌 o𝖿 r𝖾𝘢𝗱er𝘴 on g𝖺lոо𝘷𝗲l𝗌.co𝘮

Kari turned to Brad, searching for comfort. He placed an arm around her waist and said softly, “I’m sure you didn’t mean it.” His tone sounded gentle and understanding—but his eyes were distant and cold, offering her no real shelter from the crowd’s judgment.

Ron pressed the matter, calling on Kari to apologize, and soon others around him echoed the same demand.

Kari had never felt humiliation like this before. Apologizing publicly would be the same as admitting defeat.

But with so many influential figures watching, even a minor misstep could drag Havenridge Group into unwanted scrutiny and lasting damage.

She looked to Brad again, searching for an out. He lowered his gaze for a moment before speaking in a measured, deliberate tone. “For Havenridge Group’s sake, you need to apologize. If you refuse, we risk significant financial losses and a scandal we cannot afford.”

Kari bit down on her lip, visibly wrestling with herself.

Brad’s voice turned flat and emotionless. “There are reporters from at least five major outlets in this room. Even if you try to contain it, this will spread. You are the face of Havenridge Group, and your father’s name will be pulled into it as well. Is that really what you want?”

In the end, Kari relented. Anger still burned behind her eyes, but her expression remained rigid and controlled as she forced the words out. “This was my mistake, Ms. Owen. I said many things that were unfair and wholly inappropriate.”

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