Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Vivian used to pull stunts far more outrageous than she does now.

Aaron finally softened his fierce expression. "Why are you here?"

"N-nothing..."

In truth, Vivian didn't dare admit she was there to cause trouble for Serena.

"Then you should leave."

"Yes."

Vivian dashed out of the mansion, her heart still racing even after she got into her

car.

She had clearly underestimated Serena.

A while back, when Serena returned to Northspire, it seemed like she was retreating to advance.

Today's events proved Serena's tactics had worked.

No, she couldn't stand by and watch her brother be enchanted by that fox.noveldrama

Vivian started the car and drove towards the Vance family estate.

At Rosewood Gardens:

Inside the mansion, Serena and Aaron sat down at the dining table. Usually, Serena chose to sit as far from Aaron as possible, but today she sat on his right.

It wasn't her inclination, but to lower Aaron's guard, she obliged.

After dinner, Aaron, in a buoyant mood, reminded Serena, "The celebration party is the day after tomorrow, don't forget."

Serena smiled, this time genuinely. "I won't forget."

Aaron nodded slightly, his gaze lingering on Serena's face, unable to look away.

The corner of her lips lifted slightly, her entire face bright and lively, like a flower blooming in the afternoon sun.

"I'll head upstairs now." Feeling the intensity in Aaron's gaze, Serena turned and went upstairs.

Time flew by, and soon it was the day of the celebration party.

Early in the morning, a team of makeup artists, stylists, and wardrobe consultants arrived.

Serena woke up to find a dozen faces gathered around her bed, instantly snapping her to full alertness.

"Miss Sullivan, please take a bath first," a woman in a butler's outfit said with a graceful bow, pointing towards the bathroom.

Before Serena could fully process what was happening, several people escorted her into the bathroom.

After her bath, she was whisked to the vanity like a doll, where the team descended upon her.

Makeup artists applied cosmetics, hairstylists styled her hair, and others coordinated her jewelry-each working in harmony.

Serena just stared at her reflection, bewildered. It's just a celebration party, she

thought. Why does it feel like I'm preparing for a coronation?

Serena was naturally beautiful, with flawless skin and a perfect figure.

The team didn't take long to complete her look.

"Miss Sullivan, you're ready," said a refined voice. The crowd around Serena dispersed, revealing her exquisite reflection in the mirror.

Serena barely recognized herself. Dressed in an elegant black gown that accentuated her graceful figure, the open back design showcased her beautiful shoulder blades.

Her makeup, perfectly applied, highlighted her already stunning features, making her look like a celestial being descended to earth, breathtakingly beautiful.

Even the head of the well-trained team took a moment to gather her thoughts.

"Miss Sullivan, it's time to leave," she said, not forgetting to steal another glance at Serena.

Though accustomed to working with top celebrities, she had never seen anyone as flawlessly beautiful as Serena.

With the help of the team, Serena finally settled into the Maybach.

As the car glided forward, she clenched her fists nervously.