Rise of The Abandoned Husband (Liam Knight) novel Chapter 35

35 Chapter 35 – A Calculated Humiliation

35 Chapter 35 – A Calculated Humiliation

I could feel every eye in the room burning into me as I stood my ground. The weight of their judgment was almost palpable, but I refused to show any weakness. Julian’s smirk widened as he watched me, clearly savoring what he believed would be my downfall.

“Mr. Knight,” a smooth voice called from my left. I turned to see Damian Prescott approaching, champagne flute in hand. “With Miss Ashworth’s backing, I wouldn’t worry too much about Julian’s… theatrics.”

I nodded slightly. “I appreciate your concern.”

“The Ashworth name carries significant weight,” he continued, just loud enough for nearby guests to hear. “More than most in this room would care to admit.”

Before I could respond, another figure materialized beside us. Roman Volkov, known for his extensive business connections across Veridia City, offered his hand.

“We haven’t been properly introduced. Roman Volkov,” he said, his accent thick but his grip firm. “I’ve heard interesting things about you, Mr. Knight.”

“All bad, I assume?” I replied with a hint of dry humor.

Roman’s lips curved upward. “Not all. And I’ve learned to form my own opinions rather than listen to gossip.”

A hush fell over the crowd as Julian Hawthorne cut through the party, a tall white–haired young man in tow. Julian’s eyes were cold, his expression one of

practiced superiority.

“Well, well,” Julian announced loudly, “the uninvited guest seems to be making himself quite comfortable.” He stopped directly in front of me. “Tell me, Knight, do crash parties you haven’t been invited to?”

you often

I met his gaze steadily. “I’m here representing Miss Ashworth’s interests. As you’re

aware.”

Julian’s eye twitched at the mention of Isabelle. “Representing? Is that what you call it? I wonder what qualifications a disgraced live–in son–in–law has to represent someone of Miss Ashworth’s standing”

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35 Chapter 35 – A Calculated Humiliation

Several onlookers snickered. I remained unmoved.

“Miss Ashworth seems satisfied with my qualifications,” I replied evenly.

Julian’s face darkened. “Your presence here is an insult, Knight. You don’t belong among us.”

“And yet, here I stand.”

Julian turned abruptly to Damian, his voice dripping with false warmth. “Damian, my friend. I understand your family’s shipping company is facing some… difficulties with regulatory approvals for your eastern expansion?”

Damian stiffened. “We’re handling it.”

“I could make those problems disappear with one phone call,” Julian continued. “All I ask is that you show our uninvited guest the proper welcome he deserves.” He mimed a slapping motion. “One simple gesture, and your family’s financial future is secured.” The room went silent. Everyone watched, waiting to see if Damian would take the deal. Damian looked at me briefly, then back at Julian. “I must decline, Julian. My father taught me that a man’s character is worth more than any business advantage.” Julian’s smile vanished. “Your father will regret your principles when your family business is bleeding money in six months.”

“Perhaps,” Damian replied coolly. “But at least I’ll be able to look him in the eye.”

“You’re making a mistake,” Julian hissed. “Both of you.” He glared at Roman, who had remained beside me.

I couldn’t help myself. “The only fool here is you, Hawthorne.”

A collective gasp rippled through the crowd. Julian’s face contorted with rage, then suddenly relaxed into something more dangerous – satisfaction.

“A fool, am I?” He snapped his fingers, and the music stopped abruptly. “Ladies and gentlemen, I believe it’s time for some entertainment.”

Julian climbed onto a small raised platform at the center of the room. “Tonight, we have a special guest who doesn’t seem to understand his place. Perhaps we should remind him.”

<

35 Chapter 35 – A Calculated Humiliation

My stomach tightened, but I kept my expression neutral.

“Tell me, Knight,” Julian called out, his voice carrying across the silent room. “How is your lovely wife, Seraphina Sterling? Still happily married after three years?”

I said nothing, sensing the trap unfolding.

“No answer? Perhaps you’re not aware of everything happening in your own household.” Julian smiled cruelly. “Seraphina, dear, would you join us?”

From the crowd, Seraphina emerged, looking stunning in her fitted red dress. Behind her followed Gideon Blackwood, his hand possessively at the small of her back.

“Seraphina,” Julian purred, “would you mind sharing with our guests the true nature of your marriage to Mr. Knight?”

Seraphina’s gaze found mine, not a hint of remorse in her eyes. “What would you like to know, Julian?”

“Let’s start with fidelity. Have you been faithful to your husband?”

She laughed, the sound cutting through the room. “Of course not. Why would I be?”

More gasps, followed by poorly concealed snickers. I stood perfectly still, forcing my face to remain impassive despite the knot forming in my chest.

“And how long has this… arrangement been going on?” Julian prompted.

Seraphina tossed her hair back. “Since our wedding night.”

The crowd erupted in shocked whispers and barely suppressed laughter.

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