The Kiss that Sparked it All

Nolan didn’t crack a smile. Instead, he dropped a bombshell with a simple statement, “Everyone’s been saying Mr. Tanner is the epitome of fairness and impartiality. Turns out that’s actually true, treating both his daughters without bias, whether they’re his by blood or not.”

Imogen’s face turned sour.

What was this young man getting at? NôvelDrama.Org holds text © rights.

Just moments ago, she had heard that he was Mr. Harris of the Harris Group, a young CEO whose reputation for excellence preceded him. So why were his words loaded with such insinuation?

Francis, too, caught the subtext in Nolan’s remarks.

Confused, he glanced at Regina before looking back at Nolan. As far as he knew, the two had never met before, yet here was Nolan, seemingly taking up the cudgels on behalf of his daughter.

Regina also looked at him, then quickly averted her gaze. Her eyes were a mystery, a tangle of unreadable emotions.

What was Nolan up to? Was he trying to apologize for taking her spot earlier?

But to her, the exposure of family drama was far more embarrassing than any plea made on her behalf.

“Dad, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll head downstairs,” Regina said stiffly, her voice as rigid as her posture.

Nolan found Regina amusing. Even in the face of such indignity, she stood tall, pretending as if nothing had happened. The great Regina Tanner, outmaneuvered by a non-blood relative-Nolan was curious whether she felt even a twinge of resentment.

Hearing her words, Francis immediately glared at her. “That’s quite rude, Regina. Mr. Harris hasn’t even said he’s leaving. How can you excuse yourself first? You’re the hostess, and I’ve reminded you time and again how grand tonight’s event is. You must be polite.”

Then, Francis turned to Nolan and apologized, “I’m so sorry, Mr. Harris, my daughter is spoiled, hence her brashness. Still, the party is about to begin. Shall we head down?”

Francis had gone overboard, chastising her in front of a guest. No matter the real feelings toward his flesh and blood, it was uncouth to strip her of dignity in public.

Nolan’s frown deepened.

Regina’s straight shoulders seemed so fragile, as if they might shatter at the slightest

“Let’s go,” he said.

Staying with the Tanners for too long wasn’t a good idea.

Uncomfortable gatherings like this deserved minimal attendance, and as for the prospective collaboration with the Tanner family, that now required further thought.

Francis was oblivious to the fact that he had unwittingly offended Nolan. Having the hotshot of the social circles at his dinner was a matter of pride for Francis. Nolan wasn’t known to give his time to just anyone.

Around the corner of the staircase, Francis grabbed Regina’s arm. “Stick close to me tonight. I’ll introduce you to some key guests. You’ve already made a misstep today; don’t upset me further, understood?”

Regina stiffened her neck but didn’t reply. She didn’t believe she was in the wrong.

Those two women were masters of manipulation-so quick to play the victims at the slightest hint of their father’s approach. It was laughable.

Sooner or later, she was certain their true colors would show. If her father genuinely wanted to uncover the truth, a simple review of the security footage would lay everything bare-it all depended on whether he really cared.

“Just listen to me, will you? Stop being so stubborn. Everyone your age is wrapped up in romance, while you’re out there breaking your back with menial jobs. Do you really think I don’t care about you?”