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    18 A sh of Realities


    18 A sh of Realities


    The conversation between Wayne and Alex was tense, the air thick with unspoken implications.


    Wayne’s knowledge of Alex’s private life was unsettling, hinting at a deeper connection. The mention of


    his divorce and the derogatory remark about Emma marrying down drew curious nces from those


    nearby.


    Alex, cornered, acknowledged his divorce. “Yes, we divorced. It was a decision made after much


    consideration.”


    Wayne’s tone was biting. “Your ex–wife. To think she married someone like you. A misfortune indeed.


    Jada chimed in, her wordsced with scorn. “It’s no surprise any woman would suffer being linked to


    Alex. And speaking of suffering, there’s quite the buzz about you handling Be’s scandals.”


    Caught off guard, Alex bristled at Jada’s insinuations. “Be’s matters are my concern. I’m simply


    assisting a friend.”


    Jada’s next question was more pointed. “And what nature of ‘friendship‘ do you share with Be? Are


    the rumors true?”


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    Alex’s response was curt, “That’s none of your business.” Jada raised one eyebrow at Alex, disdain for


    him clearly etched on her face. She refused to dignify him with a reply, but was clearly spoiling for a


    fight


    As Wayne led Jada away to avoid further confrontation, onlookers whispered among themselves, their


    curiosity piqued by the apparent animosity between Alex and the Smirnovs.


    One guest approached Alex, questioning what could have provoked such a reaction from Wayne.


    Wayne is known for his patience. What did you do to anger him?”


    Alex, lost in his thoughts, reflected on theplexities of high society. He realized the elite operated.


    on different rules, often beyond his understanding.


    Later, Alex observed Wayne and Jada at the buffet. Jada’s demeanor suggested she was well-


    ustomed to luxury, her presence alongside Wayne no coincidence.


    Determined to seek answers, Alex approached them. “Mr. Wayne, there are matters I’d like to discuss


    with you.


    Π


    Wayne’s response was indifferent, a silent invitation for Alex to speak.


    “I’m puzzled by your hostility. Is my divorce such a concern to you? Have I unknowingly crossed at


    line?”


    Their conversation was interrupted by other guestsing around to greet Wayne, but Wayne’s focus


    remained on Alex. “Without your ex–wife, your sess would be questionable. Don’t overestimate


    15 A sh of Realities


    your significance.”


    Alex was taken aback. Wayne’s involvement in his career, unknown to him, had been for Emma’s sake.


    This revtion made him painfully aware of how much he had underestimated her influence


    and contribution.


    The silence following Wayne’s statement was palpable. Before anyone could react, the host, Mr.


    Williams, arrived, his cheerful demeanor contrasting sharply with the tense atmosphere.


    Mr. William’s mention of Emma surprised Alex. “Your wife’s negotiation skills were crucial to our


    coboration. Why isn’t she here tonight?”


    The question hung in the air, a stark reminder to Alex of Emma’s absence and the pivotal role she had


    yed in his life and career. As he grappled with this new understanding, Alex felt a growing sense of


    loss and regret, recognizing the depth of Emma’s impact and the void her departure had lose