Chapter45The Ortiz family had made a name for themselves in recent years, thanks to their groundbreaking electric vehicle battery. technology. Before that, they were a stable middle-class business focused on automotive chip production. Their success today could largely be credited to Martha, who had been the driving force behind the family’s transitions. Decades ago, she led the family from running auto repair shops in producing chips, and in recent years, she championed the development of new battery technology.Not only that, but Martha also established an elderly care foundation, actively addressing the challenges older people face in healthcare and retirement. Her efforts earned her national recognition.. Crescentville, she was revered as a pioneering figure and a role model for many. and effortlessly entered the banquet hall.In both the industry and throughouer had given her aShakira held the business cardThe venue was extravagant and elegantly decorated, showcasing the Ortiz family’s deep respect for their matriarch.From aa distance, through the crowd, Shakira spotted Martha surrounded by several guests. Among there were the familiar faces of Cody and Yoel.With her trendy Peach-colored hair and lively demeanor, Martha looked much younger than her seventy years, maintaining a fit physique that would make many believe she was Yoel’s older sister. Today, Shakira Shakira had no interest in stealing the spotlight; she just wanted to find a quiet corner to enjoy the show.But her thoughts were interrupted by a voice calling out to her. “Shakira.“As the host for the evening, Dakot Dakotaa looked sharp in his suit, exuding charm. When he saw Shakira, a subtle smile appeared on his face. “Yvette, I’m so glad you’re here.” unimpressed. “You don’t need to be so glad. I’m not here for you.”Shakira shrugged, Dakota didn’t seem bothered by her indifference. “Sure, you came for Grandma’s sake. That makes me happy too.”This time, Shakira didn’t respond. While it was s true thatshe hadcome because of Walter, on some level, she was also there for Martha. Stepping closer, Dakota’s gaze locked onto Shakira’s, intense and searching.”Shakira, can we find some time to sit down and talk? I know Yvette and I are together now, but that’s out of obligation. You know, two years ago, I wanted to confess my feelings for you. I like- “We don’t have anything to discuss. The Shakira from two years ago is not the same as the Shakira nowShakira turned to meet his gaze, her eyes cool and steady. “Back then, you promised to join me in Belaris. When I waited for you at the airport and you never showed, our past was over Dakota tensed at her gaze and the words she spoke.He clenched his fists tightly, his knuckles turning white Tm sorry. If I hadn’t let you down, at least I would have been there for you when you needed me the most-“No need for that. Having you around might make things worse. I’m not saying this to make you feel guilty. I’m just making it clear that we have our boundaries now, understand, Dakota?”08:23 Sat, OctChapter 45Shakira spoke her mind-frankly. Whether he had intended to board that plane didn’t matter anymore.In this new life, she understood exactly what she wanted and realized she could only rely on herself, not hold onto impossible hopes for others.Dakota felt a a mix of frustration and I regret at her words. He couldn’t argue. All he wanted was to escape the conversation.”Let’s not talk about this today. I’ll take you to see Grandma Ortiz. She’ll be so surprised to see you.” In a moment of desperation, Dakota slipped his arm around her shoulders, just like he used to do two years ago. Shakira swiftly stepped back, avoiding his touch. But just then, afflustered figure rushed over, bumping her to the side.”Dakota.” Yvette firmly intertwined her arm with Dakota’s, glaring at Shakira with a protective look. “What were you two talking about so closely?”Dakota stood there, stunned, looking at the distance between him and Shakira, realizing how far apart they suddenly felt.”Nothing, I was just gonna take Shakira to see Grandma Ortiz.Though Yvette felt a pang of unease, she put on a smile and said “Grandma Ortiz will be busy greeting the elders. Let’s wait until she has a moment to chat with us, okay?”He nodded, “Yeah.””Oh, Dakota, I just saw Uncle Ortiz looking for you. Maybe you should check in with him?” said Yvette.Sure.Yvette, please take care of Shakira. I’ll head over first.”As Dakota walked away, Xanthe and Berry swapped to their usual sharp-tongued selves and surrounded Shakira Xanthe scoffed, “Shakira, Dakota is Yvette’s boyfriend. You’re not thinking about going after him, are you?” Berry chimed in with a mocking laugh, “Haha, take a look in the mirror, Shakira. Dakota is out of your league!” Shakira a nodded, completely agreeing. “Exactly! Only someone like Yvette would match Dakota.” Yvette’s expression darkened with the words.Xanthe’s expression also changed. Just as she raised her hand, Shakira shot her a look, shaking the wine glass in her hand. “Still want to get splashed?” “You bitch!” shouted XantheYvetteswallowed her anger and stepped forward to ease the tension, “Xanthe, Berry, we’re all classmates. Can we just stop the fighting?”Turning to Shakira, her voice dripping with desperation, she continued, “Sister, even if you don’t care about me, can you at least consider Martha’s feelings?” I’m more than happy to give Martha that courtesy.”Seeing Shakira relent, Yvette let out a big sigh of relief.Shakira couldn’t help but smile at her expression. She thought, Did Yvette see herself as a future member of the Ortiz family? Maybe in a past life that dream could have come true, but now… Shakira raised an eyebrow coollyChapter 45As Yvette turned to pull Xanthe and Berry away, Berry suddenly grasped Yvette’s left hand. “Yvette, where’s your ring?” “Ring?” It took Yvette a moment to register, her face paling. “Is my ring from Dakota gone?”பXanthe rushed over and slipped her hand into Shakira’s pocket, pulling out a yellow diamond ring. “Thief! So, you did steal Yvette’s engagement ring.” Yvette clutched the ring with reverence, looking at Shakira with disappointment. “Sister, how could you do this?” Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the Find_Nøvel.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.Berry signaled to the bodyguards. “She’s a thiefl Get her out of here!”The bodyguards glanced at each other, the evidence clear, and moved in.As their hypocritical charades unfolded, Shakira understood their foolish intentions all too well. She lowered her head, a sneer of disdain crossing her face. She thought, ‘Outnumbered? Then let you all feel the consequences!When she lifted her head again, her eyes glimmered with a cold fury.Suddenly, she raised her hand and smashed the wine glass on the ground. The pristine marble floor shattered the silence with a sharp crack.
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