On the evening of the birthday banquet. Lawson residence, lights shining brightly.

Bruce Lawson was planning to secure a contract with Arthur Austin tonight, so he had spared no expense for this grand affair. The guests at the banquet were all prominent figures in Worcester's political and business circles. To execute her scheme, Sophie Lawson not only invited the senior Austin but also arranged for several journalists to attend.

Lola Lawson had meticulously dressed up for the occasion, flaunting a six-figure gown she had bought on a shopping trip with Sophie Lawson. She walked proudly amongst the socialites. After the recent incident at the clinic where she had been outwitted by Freya Lawson, Lola had become the black sheep of the socialite circle. Yet earlier that day, she had boasted that her child was fathered by Ethan Austin and claimed that he would beg her for forgiveness tonight. The society ladies, always hungry for gossip, eagerly waited for her potential humiliation.

Freya Lawson entered the venue after the banquet had commenced. As she walked in, all eyes were immediately drawn to her. She wore an elegant lotus-colored princess dress, seemingly simple yet exceptionally exquisite. Discerning socialites instantly recognized it as a custom-made masterpiece, likely costing a handsome seven-figure sum. That night, Freya had her long, cascading hair pulled up high, adorned with pearl ornaments. Her face was lightly made up, with eyes that shone like onyx. She looked ethereal and innocent, like a fairy lost in the mortal realm. A simple platinum necklace with a bell pendant rested on her graceful neck, producing a delightful jingle with every step.

All attention was on Freya Lawson. Even Lola, initially preoccupied with flaunting her own attire, found herself captivated by Freya's gown. Suddenly, her own dress felt cheap and unimpressive in comparison. Jealous and frustrated that Freya had stolen her limelight, Lola's eyes glowed with envy.

She bit her lip, sashaying over to Freya with a smirk. "Freya, who bought you that lovely dress?" she asked with a hint of sarcasm.

Freya blinked, replying sweetly, "Bradley had it custom-made for me."

Lola chuckled mockingly, "Oh, your disabled husband? But can he even see how beautiful you look in it? Haha."

Freya motioned for Lola to lower her voice, leaning into whisper, "Keep it down. Frederick Johnson is right behind you. He won't be pleased if he hears you."

Lola turned and indeed saw Frederick Johnson, accompanied by a few bodyguards. Clearly, they were there to ensure Freya's safety.

Hmph... But what did it matter? Even if they were to humiliate Freya tonight, what could a blind and disabled man do against them?

At the grand foyer, adjacent to the opulent open-air swimming pool, the atmosphere was positively electric. Sophie Lawson, cradling a glass of the finest red wine, was nestled among a circle of elite society ladies.

"My dear Mrs. Lawson, you truly are the epitome of ageless beauty. Rumor has it that your delightful daughter, Lola, has been courted by the Austin heir. Could wedding bells be ringing soon?"

"Why, it's practically written in the stars! Why else would Mr. Lawson spare no expense for such a lavish birthday soirée?"

"Now, remember Mrs. Lawson, once Lola is ensconced as the young dame of the Austin estate, we do hope you'll not forget your circle of friends. We'll certainly look forward to the Austins' patronage in our ventures," a lady chimed in with a playful wink.

Sophie, her lips curled in a pleased smile, responded gracefully, "But of course, my dears. Once Lola becomes an Austin, your wishes will be our command!"

Their praises seemed to make Sophie's smile gleam even brighter. However, their lively exchange was interrupted by a footman who discreetly relayed a message into her ear.

"Where might he be?"

"Madam, the venerable Mr. Austin Sr. is taking his reprieve in the lounge. He finds solace in the quiet."

"Very well, I shall attend to him posthaste." Turning to her companions with a flourish, she elegantly declared, "Ladies, our esteemed guest has graced us with his presence. I must extend our hospitality. Pray excuse me."

With poised dignity, she departed, leaving the ladies abuzz with whispered conversations.

"Such airs she puts on, as if Lola is already an Austin bride!" One lady remarked with a hint of disdain.

"And with the Austins' penchant for pristine lineage and impeccable virtues, would Mr. Austin Sr. truly entertain the idea of welcoming someone of Lola's nocturnal escapades?" another mused.

"Just imagine if Sophie were to face a slight this evening – it would be the talk of Wrocester!"

Navigating the throngs, Sophie's gaze was on a mission to locate Lola. But it unexpectedly alighted upon Freya Lawson. The young beauty was clad in an attire that whispered understated luxury. Yet, there was no sign of Bradley Austin, further fueling Sophie's intrigue.

"Ah, the radiant Freya! Pray tell, where might Bradley be this evening?"

Caught mid-bite on a delicate pastry, Freya answered, "He chose not to attend."

"What a pity! We had envisioned a delightful dance duet for you. Alas, without Bradley, how shall we proceed?"

Before Freya could retort, Sophie, with a dramatic flair, addressed the assembly, "Our enchanting Freya had envisioned gracing us with a dance this evening. Alas, Bradley's absence poses a conundrum. Would any gallant gentleman step forth to be her partner?"

A chorus of eager affirmations arose, "I would be honored to accompany Miss Freya."

"As would I!"

"Count me in..."

With a sly, satisfied smirk, Sophie observed the ensuing spectacle. Regardless of the evening's dance partner, Freya was bound to play right into Sophie's hands.

Feigning delight and surprise, Sophie exclaimed, "My, our Freya truly is the belle of the ball tonight! But she can dance with only one. Freya, my dear, might you do the honors of selecting?"

Freya, her expression inscrutable, surveyed the hopeful faces before her—