Chapter 13 Prank

• Some people started to gather around to view the commotion. They were also curious to know how Ryleigh was related to Paxton.
• Ryleigh articulated her response slowly. “I am Mr. Lev’s grandma’s…” After a deliberate pause, she continued, “Nanny!”
• Paxton frowned when he noticed that Ryleigh was surrounded by a crowd. He walked toward her, intending to lead her out of the event. However, Paxton was caught surprised by Ryleigh’s response and could not help but burst out laughing. As a result, he accidentally spilled some champagne on his hand.
• Grandma’s nanny?! I can’t believe she thought of such a lousy answer. Paxton thought in amusement.
• Merlyn was also in stunned disbelief when she heard Ryleigh’s response. Even though Ryleigh had derogated herself, it felt like Merlyn had lost the battle instead.
• How can a nanny afford such a priceless outfit? Merlyn thought to herself. Though she had intended to ridicule the woman before her, she could no longer find the strength to do so. After all, the harder Ryleigh tried to cover her identity, the more desirable and attractive she seemed. Moreover, Merlyn had never seen Paxton lose his calm and aloof demeanour. Yet, he had spilled champagne on himself because of her.
• In an attempt to salvage the awkward situation, Merlyn offered gently, “Let me help you clean up, Mr. Lev.” She took out her handkerchief and gingerly leaned forward to the man. The woman reeked of strong perfume, which instantly overwhelmed Paxton’s senses. Unfortunately, just as he was about to sidestep and avoid the close contact, Ryleigh pushed him forward. The champagne slipped away from Paxton’s hand and poured all over Merlyn’s dress.
• “Ahh!” Merlyn jumped backward and let out a scream. Her smile froze as she was in an unbelievably awkward situation. When Ryleigh noticed that Merlyn was still holding the handkerchief in mid-air, she suggested, “Why don’t you clean yourself up first?”
• Merlyn was speechless and her face twisted in anger. She knew that Ryleigh was responsible for the mess, but she could not throw a tantrum as it was Paxton who had poured the wine on her. She clenched her jaw and tried to control her rage.
• Merlyn muttered before making her way to the restroom, “Excuse me for a moment.” She scolded inwardly, damn it! My reputation is ruined all because of that woman!
• Feeling glad that the drama had ended, Ryleigh turned to Paxton and raised her glass. She smiled gleefully and said, “You are welcome!”
• Paxton remained silent and thought to himself quizzically, she’s incredulous. Why would she think that she has done me a service by chasing away a woman? As he used the napkins to wipe his hands, he cast a side glance at Ryleigh. She looks so energetic now. I should not underestimate her. How foolish of me to worry that she will be bullied by the socialites! She has proven her capabilities by making use of me to achieve her goals.
• Ryleigh’s mood visibly lightened after the episode. Just as she was about to drink the glass of champagne, a voice warned, “Don’t you dare drink alcohol!” Paxton reached out and snatched the glass away from her before continuing, “Don’t drink it if you have such poor alcohol tolerance. You will make a fool of yourself like the previous time.” Without waiting for a reply, he turned and left.
• Ryleigh was stunned by his sudden instructions. She turned to look at her empty hand and wondered to herself, what did I do after I was drunk? Why is he so scared? She could only recall that she slapped Paxton on his face. However, he did not punish or scold her after the episode. Seems like that man can hold a grudge, Ryleigh pouted as she thought to herself.
• The crowd slowly dispersed, and no one dared to approach Ryleigh anymore. They would rather err on the side of caution than to offend Ryleigh and Paxton.
• Just then, the lights in the main hall dimmed, and the multicolored spotlights turned on. The emcee started to make a warm welcome address and introduced the host of tonight’s event. It was the Xanders, the military family from the capital. The star of today’s event was none other than the daughter of the Xander family, who was missing for the past twenty years.