Chapter 12 Can’t be untouched
Originally planning to rest, seeing Cyril changed Sylvia’s mind. She headed to the quieter backyard gardens instead.
With everyone networking inside, the backyard was peaceful and private, just what Sylvia needed. She understood the banquet’s real motive despite being held ostensibly in her
honor
– an opportunity for her family’s associates to lobby for partnerships and favors.
1 With no desire to entertain such agendas, the isolated backyard suited her perfectly.
Settling down, familiar hurried footsteps soon approached before Juliet’s voice rang out. Where have you been? I searched all over but couldn’t find you. Hiding out here I see. What’s on your mind?”
“Nothing much. Just wanted some quiet time away from the noise. The backyard is nice and peaceful for sitting undisturbed. Weren’t you going to rest at home?” Sylvia asked.
“I did go home to rest but when I couldn’t find you, I came out searching. Oh by the way, I saw Cyril taking a call, seemingly speaking with that woman,” Juliet responded, her tone laced with disdain.
Hearing about Cyril’s call, Sylvia knew without doubt it had to be Caroline. Who else could it possibly be? 1
“What’s so great about her?” Juliet complained bitterly, “Just some two–bit actress. For stardom, such entertainment circle people can stoop to anything. Most of those online reports about her are likely true.”
Amused, Sylvia corrected, “Actually quite a few of those exposes were arranged by my brother. And they’re all bona fide. So it’s not ‘most likely‘, but absolutely all true. Anything for fame and fortune but when duplicity backfires, blame is unavoidable.”
Juliet fell silent, acknowledging the truth of it. Without actual malfeasance, someone like Caroline could never have risen so high, especially not with her persona of kindness and diligence she flaunted before Cyril to secure his aid.
“How do you feel about everything though?” Juliet finally asked gently, “It is quite unfair you had to divorce over someone like her. We’re all thrilled you finally came to your senses but still, he was your personal choice all those years.”
Caught off guard by the sudden question, Sylvia took time to analyze her true feelings. Initially, Caroline’s intrusiveness left her incredibly furious, often confronting Cyril who remained implacably calm and dismissive. Over time and repeated instances, Sylvia realized her protests were futile, only causing herself more anguish. Eventually she grew numb until
Chapter 12 Can’t be untouched
Caroline’s recent return finally snapped the last thread of patience.
–
2/2
“Impossible to remain unaffected,” she eventually replied. “I did love him many years so it was upsetting to witness his behavior. But I’ve come to terms with it for a woman he loves deeply enough to act this way, clearly that depth of feeling doesn’t apply to me. So be it. I’ve been slowly letting him go.”
Instantly setting aside complex emotions was impossible after years together. But she was gradually healing and would someday regard Cyril and Caroline with indifference.
Hearing Sylvia’s earnest words, Juliet sighed deeply. “You’re right, quickly abandoning such feelings is difficult. But don’t worry, he doesn’t deserve you anyway. Plenty of better men will treasure you.”
Sylvia had to stifle her amusement at Juliet’s choice of words and odd phrasing-
“Oh by the way!” Juliet suddenly exclaimed, “I overheard your brother mentioning another gift package‘ prepared for Cyril despite his distaste at having to keep up appearances. Let’s see what he did!” Taking out her phone excitedly, Juliet navigated to several breaking news articles.
Sylvia leaned over curiously as well. Indeed, Bruce had prepared a massive bombshell for Cyril. After desperately covering for Caroline recently despite evidence exposing her behavior, all his efforts now seemed utterly futile.
Reading the news, glee suffused Juliet. Served him right to understand certain people were simply untouchable, immune from his
power.
The meticulously prepared revelations disseminated rapidly across every major platform. Overnight, the exposé ignited into a sizzling trending topic, leaving the public stunned by this late night twist.
Oblivious at first during the banquet, Cyril only learned about it when his assistant notified him anxiously. The abrupt reversal of tide took him completely by surprise, the evidence ironclad.