Chapter 89 The Embarrassment
Winter arrived early in Girard City this year, but Athena only needed a light coat as she stood at the crowded exit of the station in Salin City. As the cold wind cut through her, she could feel the chill seep into her bones.
Heather, standing nearby, was the picture of beauty and elegance, effortlessly attracting attention. It wasn’t long before someone in the crowd recognized her.
“Isn’t that the girl who was born with a silver spoon and married the heir of the Crawford Group? She was all over the news!”
“It’s her! She’s absolutely gorgeous!”
“But why is she here at this hour? It’s so late.”
“She’s here to pick up her fiancé, of course. Look over there…”
Byron’s expression darkened. He subconsciously glanced at Athena, noticing her pale face, the flustered look in her eyes, and the discomfort that seemed to radiate from her.
“I didn’t know she was coming,” he muttered.
Athena’s tone was flat as she responded, “Isn’t it normal for her to come pick up her fiancé? Mr. Crawford, you should hurry, since someone’s already recognized you. Don’t let anyone with ulterior motives take photos for publicity.”
Byron’s face grew even colder, mirroring the biting winter wind. Nevertheless, he made his way toward Heather. Athena followed him silently, feeling more embarrassed by the second.
Heather greeted them with a warm smile. “Mom and I just got back from shopping in New York. She knew you were coming back, so she asked me to pick you up.”
She turned her attention to Athena as she spoke. “Miss Newton, I hope your hand is feeling better?”
Athena raised her eyes, her gaze clear and steady. “Mrs. Crawford, thank you for asking. It’s much better.”
Byron shot Athena a sharp look.
“Mr. Crawford, I’ll prepare the materials for the meeting and send them to your email,” Athena said. “And now, I need to leave.”
Heather quickly interjected, her voice laced with concern. “It’s so late, Miss Newton. For your safety, why not come with us? I’ll drive you home.” Athena’s discomfort only grew. She wasn’t interested in becoming part of Heather’s performance. “Thank you, but I’ll pass,” she replied bluntly, her tone unwavering. The prying eyes around her made her feel exposed, like she was standing on burning coals. She walked away without looking back, heading toward the taxi area. Heather watched her leave, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “I didn’t expect Byron to like the iceberg beauty type.” Byron’s expression remained impassive, his irritation growing, though he didn’t let it show. “What’s your game this time?” he asked, his voice cold. Heather smiled faintly, her tone tinged with helplessness. “A celebrity’s flight was delayed, so there are fans and reporters around. Mom knew you were with Miss Newton and was worried they might take photos of you both. That’s why I came.” Byron glanced around and, sure enough, he saw a few people holding up their cameras, their attention clearly on him. “Let’s go. Mom’s waiting for us in the garage,” Heather said, wrapping her arm around his. Byron stiffened at the touch, his discomfort evident. He didn’t like being touched, especially not by Heather. “I didn’t do it out of my own will. I’m just playing my part,” Heather added in a quieter voice. Byron didn’t respond. A few moments later, he climbed into a Mercedes-Benz nanny car. Inside, Lola, with a disapproving look on her face, glared at him. “I thought she was fired,” Lola said sharply. “I didn’t expect her to still be hanging around you.” Byron didn’t reply immediately. Lola continued, her voice full of frustration. “Do you think it’s appropriate to have Heather pretend to be your good fiancée on such a cold night? You’ve barely been in Girard City since you got engaged. How long has it been since you two spent a single day together?” Heather stayed silent, her gaze lowering, not defending him or responding to her mother’s harsh words.