Holding her close to himself, Julius carried Miley to the bedroom, entrusting his men with the wounded assassins and protecting the mansion. However, Miley had retreated into a state of shock… she stayed still like a statue, shivering involuntarily even when he brought her to her bedroom, back into familiar and safe surroundings. “You should have some water first…”Julius poured her a glass of water, but she didn't take the glass which he was holding right in front of her face. “Miley? Are you listening…?”Miley stayed frozen for a few moments before she got to her feet without any warning. Staring at the empty space before her, she screamed and stumbled backward, her eyes wide with terror. Her knees gave way, and she collapsed, sliding to the floor.“Miley…!”Julius said, jumping up to catch her as fast as he could. He caught her in his arms, picking her up before he set her down gently on the bed. Miley’s breaths were becoming shallow, her face getting pale with every second. J

The lady who had spoken up was none other than Penelope Denver; a popular socialite in her twenties, who was now approaching her sixties with the same arrogance as her youth. Mrs. Denver’s voice rang through the crowd once again, as she fixed her gaze on Julius, recognizing him instantly. “Well, I suppose charity begins at home! Though I never imagined it would extend to letting just anyone into such esteemed company." The woman’s fingers, covered in rubies, were wrapped around a champagne flute, her eyes narrowed at Julius.She was an old friend of the late Mr. Garcia, Quella’s grandfather. And she had always resented Julius presence, ever since Mr. Garcia had chosen Julius for his granddaughter, instead of Penelope’s son. She didn't think her son's gambling habits were a good enough reason to reject him, even though the man had buried his whole family under poker debts and court orders.But just because the generational wealth had gone, it didn't mean the generational pride an