She Was the Treasure All Along novel Chapter 514

For Channing's birthday, Joanna had taken it upon herself to invite numerous wealthy socialites, hoping to quickly cement her place in Metropia's elite circles.

At the dinner table, the guests were polite enough, keeping the atmosphere somewhat pleasant.

Channing enthusiastically recounted his time studying abroad, eventually adopting a tone of deep admiration. "When I learned about my older brother's achievements, my respect for him skyrocketed. He's honestly like a superhero. Managing critical national defense matters at sea while running our family's entire corporate empire? It's incredible."

Joanna chimed in, "I've been so worried about Lucian's health lately. He works much too hard, and Channing has so much free time. I really wish he could step in and help his brother, share some of that heavy burden."

One of the ladies asked, "I heard you studied military strategy, Channing. Do you plan to join the armed forces like Lucian?"

Channing shook his head. "My brother has that covered perfectly. I’m hoping to relieve his stress on the corporate side. But it's so hard to even get a moment with him. I was hoping to have a deep conversation with him tonight for my birthday, but unfortunately..."

Channing let out a dramatic sigh. "I invited him, but he didn't show up. I suppose he's still adjusting to my sudden presence in his life."

A low murmur of gossip rippled through the room.

Joanna patted Channing's back, feigning mild exasperation. "Your brother is just busy. I'm sure there will be plenty of opportunities later."

It wasn't until after dinner, when everyone gathered to sip premium imported tea, that a young heir suddenly gasped, staring at his phone.

His loud reaction drew everyone's attention.

"What's wrong?" Joanna asked with a polite smile. "Is the tea not to your liking?"

"No, the tea is great," the young man replied, clicking his tongue. He looked right at Joanna. "It's just... Lucian posted a new update on his social media."

Joanna froze for a second before recovering. "Is that so? He ignores my calls and skips Channing's party, but he has time to post online?"

"Honestly, Mrs. Shapiro, if he had shown up tonight, it would have been an insult to himself."

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