Chapter 125

The steady flow of arriving guests brought genuine smiles to Nora and Quentin's faces.

Exactly as the Hartwell family had anticipated, they hadn't forgotten Marianne's birthday.

Truth be told, after decades of celebrating it, forgetting was simply impossible.

That's why today's housewarming party wasn't accidental timing at all.

They still seethed remembering how their carefully planned move across from the Hartwells got disrupted by Camille's interference and Damien's unexpected assistance.

But Damien more than compensated, ironically leaving them in a better position than before.

This made them even more pleased about scheduling their housewarming to clash with the Hartwells' event and successfully poaching their guests.

Their party must be nearly deserted by now. Giselle suppressed a smirk. Couldn't even retain their own guests - after all that effort. How utterly humiliating. Once word spread, everyone would know the Hartwells had lost both influence and connections. Who'd want to associate with them then?

Sabrina clapped and laughed. "Absolutely right."

Though the Lancasters had invited Lucerne's elite, most were unfamiliar faces.

Tonight's housewarming doubled as a networking opportunity.

Selene wore the diamond bracelet Damien had purchased for her at the auction.

Many knew Damien had spent over 400 million dollars acquiring four prized lots that evening.

Seeing his devotion to Selene, numerous guests sought to curry favor.

Noticing her bracelet, they gushed, "That piece complements you perfectly, Ms. Lancaster. Mr. Harrington has impeccable taste."

Though clearly flattery, Selene's beauty enhanced anything she wore. Her elegant ensemble tonight made the diamonds sparkle brighter, accentuating her regal presence.

"Thank you," Selene responded.

Many had researched the Lancasters' preferences beforehand.

Several knew Rosalie had a passion for antiques.

Someone remarked, "I heard Madam Lancaster collects antiques. Was that Ming vase from last week's auction acquired specifically for her?"

The phrasing implied Damien already considered himself part of the Lancaster family.

Selene nodded. "Indeed it was."

Rosalie genuinely adored that vase.

Just imagining the antique brought a smile to her face.

A 100-million-dollar treasure, after all.

Damien's devotion to Selene was undeniable.

Hearing this, Nora felt a twinge of envy.

As Selene's elder, Rosalie received priceless antiques while she got nothing.

But Selene had mentioned Damien purchased two other items that night - both more valuable than the vase.

Damien knew today was the Lancasters' housewarming.

Nora assumed at least one of those treasures was meant for them.

This thought lifted her spirits considerably.