Trading My Ex for His Uncle (Nyla)

"Okay," Nathaniel answered.

As they embraced, their thoughts were worlds apart.

Nathaniel was preoccupied with Rebecca's health, while Rebecca was focused on seizing the rare opportunity to get close to Damon if he attended the party the following night. It might be her only chance to make something happen with him.

...

The next evening, when Nyla arrived at Valarie's house, the driveway was already lined with luxury cars.

After confirming Nyla's identity, a maid escorted her into the hall.

Upon entering, Nyla immediately noticed the many eyes fixed on her, accompanied by a murmuring buzz.

"Isn't that Nyla? I thought after her divorce from Clark, she'd completely fade from this circle."

"Why would she have the nerve to attend Valarie's birthday party? Is she hoping to catch a wealthy suitor here?"

"Hah, everyone knows about her past with the Sumners. Who would take her seriously? Maybe for a fling, but not as a serious prospect her looks are her only asset."

Valarie overheard the murmurs, and her expression darkened immediately.

She declared, "Nyla is my friend and a guest at tonight's party. She is no different from anyone else here. If anyone has a problem with my friend, you are welcome to leave. Tonight is my birthday party, not a stage for anyone else." As Valarie's voice echoed, the hall fell silent. Many guests shot disgruntled glances at Valarie, having just been discussing Nyla.

Phoebe, standing nearby, whispered,

"Valarie, everyone here is an elite in Saintornia Offending them could jeopardize your father's business. They're merely gossiping, and Nyla isn't worth losing an opportunity over."

Valarie ignored her mother and approached Nyla with a warm smile. "Nyla, thank you for coming to my birthday party."

Nyla appreciated Valarie's defense but knew it might stir up even more discontent.

She whispered back, "Valarie, go mingle with the other guests. Don't let me affect your party."

Valarie took Nyla's hand and said with casual reassurance, "Don't worry. It won't affect anything. Those who look down on you aren't worth keeping in touch with. By the way, I have a surprise for you tonight." "What surprise?" Nyla inquired.

"You'll find out if you come with me," Valarie replied, leading Nyla toward a secluded corner of the hall and deliberately ignoring the other guests and their disapproving glances.

Phoebe's smile was nearly frozen, but she managed to suppress any sign of distress. She forced another smile and continued greeting the other guests, gradually restoring the lively atmosphere of the party.

Valarie guided Nyla to Oliver Raynor,

her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Nyla, this is Oliver Raynor, a senio of mine from university. He's still single. Oliver, meet Nyla Jayston, my best friend whom I've told you so much about."

Nyla glanced at Oliver, who was dressed in a white suit and appeared both gentle and pleasant.

She thought she noticed Oliver's face redden slightly during the introduction, though she wasn't entirely sure.

As Damon entered the hall, his gaze

a

instinctively landed on Nyla in the corner. Seeing her standing with a man in a white suit caused him to pause momentarily. His brows

furrowed when he noticed the man's

admiring and affectionate look

toward her.