Chapter 452

Selene Lancaster and Everett Mercer didn't question how Declan Vaughn and Felix Rhodes knew each other. With practiced grace, Selene suggested, "Since we've met by chance, why don't we have lunch together?"

Everett opened his mouth to agree, but Declan cut in sharply. "I have prior commitments. Another time."

Before Everett could react, Felix smoothly added, "Same here. Business matters require my attention." His polite refusal caught Everett off guard, making him blink in surprise.

Noticing Everett's reaction, Selene's smile faltered slightly. She'd always sensed Felix's cool detachment toward her - not hostile, but distinctly uninterested. The realization stung more than she cared to admit.

"Another time then," Everett conceded awkwardly.

Selene forced a bright smile. "Of course, whenever you're available."

Felix gave a curt nod, squeezed Everett's shoulder in silent communication, and strode away. Declan had already returned to his phone, effectively dismissing them both. His blatant indifference was new - in the past, she'd always caught him stealing glances when he thought she wasn't looking.

Now? Nothing.

A faint crease appeared between Selene's brows before she smoothed her expression. "Your parents worry about you," she said gently to Declan. "Call them sometime." Without waiting for a response, she turned on her heel.

The Lancaster and Whitaker families observed the exchange from a discreet distance. As Selene rejoined them, Nora Lancaster remarked, "That was the Mercer heir and Hugh Rhodes's grandson, wasn't it? Such distinguished young men from Lakeview's elite families."

"Particularly Felix Rhodes," Rosalie Lancaster added eagerly. "He rarely appears at social functions. You should have prolonged the conversation!"

Selene had barely taken her seat when Sabrina chimed in, "They're all exceptional matches. Cora and Giselle are still unattached..."

"Exactly!" Nora agreed enthusiastically.

Cora spoke quietly, "But both Mr. Vaughn and Mr. Mercer seem quite taken with Selene. Wouldn't it be awkward?"

Rosalie shot her daughter a disapproving look. "Nonsense! Feelings develop over time. If Selene facilitates introductions, who knows what might blossom? You must try."

Cora fell silent under her mother's glare.

Selene finally interjected, "I'm not close enough with them to make such introductions."

Nora waved a dismissive hand. "Then simply bring Cora or Giselle along next time there's an event they're attending."