Outcast Queen: Her Return from Hell novel Chapter 438

The melodic notes of the piano cascaded like a flowing river, and the guests immediately closed their eyes, feigning a deeply entranced state as they listened to Nolan's masterful performance.

Phoenix watched the room's manufactured intoxication with cold detachment, a mocking curve playing on her lips. "Music will always be the ultimate weapon these people use to decorate their facades. It's as if draping themselves in classical music can mask the rot in their bones and display some profound 'elegance.'"

Pierce handed her a glass of champagne, chuckling lowly. "When your bank account is just a string of invisible numbers, you have to find something visible to flaunt your worth."

His gaze swept over the extravagant jewelry and haute couture gowns filling the room. "At the end of the day, this so-called high society is nothing but a vanity fair built on comparing egos and hunting for superiority."

Phoenix clinked her glass against his. Amidst the sharp chime of crystal, their eyes remained utterly clear.

They hadn't stepped into this circle out of vanity or a desire to climb the ranks. They were here to take the untouchable pride of certain people and brutally crush it under their heels.

Catching from the corner of her eye the venomous, jealous glares Duncan, Lorraine, and Jade kept shooting her way, Phoenix knew tonight's slap to the face had landed flawlessly.

"Miss Prescott, I am Lowell Lancaster. I offer you greetings on behalf of the Lancaster Family."

A man approached slowly, raising his glass in a toast to Phoenix. His smile was warm, his demeanor impeccable, giving Phoenix the utmost respect.

Pierce frowned slightly, ready to step in, but Phoenix subtly stopped him.

"Lancaster?" Phoenix's gaze shifted thoughtfully. "What is your relationship to Lorraine?"

Lowell paused for a moment before letting out a soft laugh. "Lorraine is merely a distant relative of our family. Years ago, she schemed her way into Duncan's bed, securing her position as Mrs. St. Claire."

He paused, a hint of mockery lacing his tone. "She's ambitious. Her target has always been the seat of the St. Claire matriarch. Unfortunately for her, all these years have passed, and Duncan hasn't even come close to the main throne. I imagine right now, she's as anxious as an ant on a hot pan."

Phoenix raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "So, the main branch of your family doesn't think too highly of this distant relative?"

Lowell scoffed coldly, making no effort to hide the disdain in his eyes. "A mere side-branch member deserves the Lancaster family's attention? She worked so hard to climb into Duncan's bed simply to borrow the St. Claire's power and bring some glory to her branch. What a pity, she bet on the wrong horse."

"Interesting." Phoenix raised her tall glass, gently tapping it against his. "Perhaps we will have the opportunity to collaborate in the future."

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify