After the CEO Divorced Me, He Wants Me Back (Aveline and Lucas)

At that moment, Nathalie spoke up as well, "It's just a dance, Selena. Don't disrespect Mr. Brooks."

Her words implied that Selena was deliberately avoiding the dance.

Ernest's expression had already soured.

Selena glanced from one person to the next, her eyes reddening as tears welled up and began to fall.

"You've misunderstood me," she said softly, her voice trembling. "I didn't mean it that way. Mr. Brooks and the Fletcher family have business dealings, and of course, I respect our partners. But my foot really is injured. It's no big deal, though.

"Even though tonight is Lila's birthday party, and she should be the one dancing the opening dance, since Ernest invited me, I would still dance even if my leg was broken."

She paused, looking fragile and innocent, before continuing with a hint of apology. "Mr. Brooks, I'm afraid my injured foot won't keep up with your steps. I'm truly sorry."

Playing the innocent card like a delicate girl? Selena could do that just as well. After all, with her husband running a media company, picking up a few acting skills was a breeze. Ernest stood there, momentarily stunned by her tearful yet brave face. He felt a pang of sympathy and waved his hand. "If you're not feeling well, it's fine. Take care and rest." With that, he turned and left.

Selena then turned to Nathalie and Lila. "Mom, Lila, as the daughter-in-law of the Fletcher family, I didn't dance with Mr. Brooks. I hope you won't hold it against me?" Several of the wealthy ladies and socialites nearby watched the scene unfold, exchanging meaningful glances.

The Fletcher family was one of the most prestigious in Cloudflare City, and their longstanding relationship with the Tudor family only added to their stature. As Aaron's wife, Selena's position was certainly not one where she should have to dance with the son of a business partner to strengthen ties. If word got out, it would be laughable.

And yet, here they were, in exactly that situation.

Seeing Selena's pitiful and self-sacrificing demeanor, the looks directed toward Nathalie from the other ladies shifted, though none dared to comment openly-business dealings with the Fletcher family were too important for that.

Nathalie's eyes darkened. This woman was playing games with her! And in front of all these people, she couldn't do anything about it for now.

Fine. Just wait.

Nathalie forced a smile. "Oh, no need to say that. Lila's dress is a bit restrictive, which is why I asked you to help. Since you're hurt, you should rest. Someone, please help Selena to a room."

A servant immediately stepped forward to support Selena, helping her upstairs.

As she left, Selena couldn't help but let a small smile tug at the corners of her lips. Nathalie would have to swallow this bitter pill in silence.

Lila stared after her, a flash of resentment flickering in her eyes.

Nathalie walked over, taking Lila's hand. "Alright, it's your birthday-be happy. Leave the rest to me."

Lila composed herself and nodded. "I understand, Mom."

The servant helped Selena into a room, and she immediately asked, "Why not take me to Aaron's room?"

The servant replied expressionlessly, "Mrs. Fletcher, the pipes in that room are broken. It's not usable at the moment."

Selena nodded. "I see."

What kind of surprise awaited her in this room?

The servant didn't leave and even called for a family doctor to come check her ankle.

Left with no choice, Selena continued to feign discomfort.

The doctor arrived shortly after and handed her a medicinal patch. "Mrs. Fletcher, applying this will help ease the pain. The banquet downstairs is just getting started. You'll need to head back down later."