Magic 78

The footage of Marnie and Marceline fighting each other continued playing on repeat on the LED screen. It even contained an audio clip of what Skyler had said to Marceline that day. 

“I’ve booked our usual room. You’ve got 30 minutes. I’m in a foul mood and need to blow off steam by giving you a hard time in bed.” 

Skyler’s sleazy voice, Marnie’s harsh and bitter expression, and the shame and embarrassment on Marceline’s face at being caught red–handed were on display at such a grand and dignified 

event. 

Valerie continued sipping happily on her cocktail as everyone gossiped freely about Sonia’s background. She had already installed an anti–spying program on every Woodward family member’s phone. If Sonia hadn’t had such evil intentions toward Valerie tonight, Valerie wouldn’t have gone to such lengths. 

“You orchestrated this, didn’t you?” Lucius‘ voice came over from behind Valerie. 

She swirled her drink, ignoring Lucius‘ question. 

Lucius came over and snatched her cocktail glass away before swapping it for orange juice. ” Alcohol harms the body. You’re forbidden from consuming any from now on.” 

Valerie huffed after being forced to hold the glass of juice. “Don’t you think you’ve imposed more and more restrictions on me lately?” 

“If we’re going to be married for life, we might as well be concerned for one another’s well- being,” Lucius said in a volume only they could hear. Though Lucius found his words a little pretentious, he couldn’t help but want to care about Valerie. 

The Woodward family’s scandal was played on repeat in front of everyone due to the total loss of control by the security management. The staff members had no choice but to unplug the LED screen to stop the loop. 

Darrell walked over just then and saw that Valerie was now dressed differently. “What’s with the change of clothes, Ms. Collins?” 

Lucius answered first, “Ms. Collins is a young woman, so there’s no need to dress in such a grand manner. She’s still a student, after all.” 

Darrell cocked an eyebrow. “I didn’t know you were a teacher, Mr. White.” 

“Everyone has a duty to protect the young and beautiful in our country,” Lucius said. 

“Ms. Woodward is young and beautiful, too, and was even embroiled in her parents‘ scandal. Aren’t you going to her aid, Mr. White?” 

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“Staying out of other families‘ private affairs is also part of our country’s long–standing values. You have my greatest respect if you do go to Ms. Woodward’s aid, however.” 

“Ms. Woodward is part of your entourage, Mr. White. If you won’t help her, who else would dare try? I’m just here to collect my plus–one.” 

Darrell then looked at Valerie and said, “The auction begins in five minutes at the auction hall on the third floor.” 

He then held out his arm for Valerie, who hooked hers around it cooperatively. She then waved at Lucius while the latter glared daggers at her. Before she left, she even mouthed to him, “See you later, darling.” 

The much–anticipated auction had finally begun. Guests from all over the world filled the large hall, the Woodward family scandal from earlier now temporarily forgotten. 

Lucius‘ and Darrell’s seats were unsurprisingly located in the front row. They both had companions–Sonia sat by Lucius‘ side, while Valerie sat by Darrell’s. 

Coincidence or not, Lucius and Valerie happened to be seated side by side. 

After sitting down, Darrell said quietly to Valerie, “Press the button if you see anything you like. I’ll pay for it.” 

There was a small button in front of each seat. Once pressed, the seat’s number would be displayed on the big screen. It was a much more convenient way of bidding than raising paddles. 

“Did Lucinda instruct you to do so?” Valerie asked Darrell. 

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Chapter 79