Chase Me Again

Chapter 13

Zander's POV

Tawny's words fell, and I noticed Alvin's amiable smile faded away. His expression turning cold and his brows slightly furrowed.

The atmosphere became awkward due to Tawny's remarks.

I had never told Tawny anything about Jessica.

I frowned, wanting to explain, but Jessica interjected with a wry smile on her face, addressing Tawny, "It's ridiculous. Of course, Zander might not tell you the truth."

"Alright, we've been outside for too long," Alvin interjected. He led Jessica to turn and leave.

Before departing, he turned his head and whispered to me, "Mr. Harrison, I have a sincere suggestion, please keep your companion in check."

I looked down at Tawny.

She paled, wanting to explain something, but I shook my head slightly with a frown.

I raised my gaze to watch Alvin and Jessica enter the banquet hall together.

"I'm sorry, Zander, I was just trying to help," Tawny exhaled softly, her tone filled with regret.

I paused for a moment before responding, "That's not necessary. Just take care of yourself."

Tawny's words wouldn't be of any help. They would only deepen Jessica's misunderstanding of me.

I wanted to explain about Serena to her but hadn't found the right opportunity.

Although it was Serena's issue, I also didn't want to discuss my staff's private life in public.

Regulating my emotions, I led Tawny into the banquet hall as well.

The Harrison Group is one of the top level groups in Los Angeles, with businesses spread across various industries.

As soon as I entered, many people approached me to greet me.

Among them, many sought cooperation.

I maintained a polite demeanor, conversing with each person.

Finally, after a lull in the greetings, I went to the catering table to pick up a glass of red wine.

My gaze involuntarily scanned the banquet hall and quickly spotted Jessica.

She was wearing that dazzling dress as she returned to Alvin's side. They were discussing something, and Jessica was laughing happily, covering her mouth with her hand.

That laugh stung my eyes.

I recalled that over the past year, I had been indifferent to Jessica, and the smile had long disappeared from her face.

When facing me, she was filled with pain and confusion.

At that moment, my heart ached with pain and guilt.

She was my lover, yet she didn't even know about those past events.

I wanted to go up, explain everything to her regardless of the consequences, and kiss her.

Just as I was about to take action, someone suddenly grabbed my arm.

"Let's talk about it later," I turned my head to see Tawny. I was in no mood to listen to her now. I wanted to shake her off and go to Jessica.

However, Tawny held on tightly, not letting go. Instead, she leaned over and whispered to me, "Are you looking at Jessica? Jessica and Mr. Riddle look really good together. Oh, don't be confused, they're probably just friends. You don't have to worry too much."

I turned my head and gave her a cold glance, "Do you like to speculate about others so casually?"

She looked at me with a concerned expression and said, "Perhaps you find my words harsh, but consider this: maybe this is the best ending."

"What do you mean?" I sensed something more in her words.

"Before I left, Warren asked me to remind you of something," Tawny's lips curled into a barely noticeable smile, and her tone was gentle as she said, "Do you still remember Kenneth?"

My steps immediately stopped, and I looked at Tawny in surprise.

Kenneth was my father.

I lost my father in that war. But later, I found out it wasn't an accident.

That's my secret. That's the reason why my relationship with Jessica almost collapsed.

A sense of anger and helplessness spread within me.

"What are you saying?" I grabbed her arm tightly, unconsciously increasing my strength until she frowned and her eyes filled with tears.

"You're hurting me, Zander," she whispered, reproachfully.

I immediately released her arm.

At that moment, Maxwell stepped onto the stage, and with enthusiasm, he announced the start of the auction part.

"Today, 20% of the auction revenue will be donated to the charity fund," Maxwell said with a smile.

He is a businessman who is passionate about charity, and his actions immediately drew applause from the guests.

My attention was also drawn to him.

After a few worthless collections were auctioned off, Maxwell presented a necklace.

The necklace was called "Tears of the Stars," crafted by the world-renowned jewelry designer Hannah.

The main stone is a 12-carat blue diamond, surrounded by hundreds of exquisite white diamonds.

Its value lies not only in its beauty but also in the dignity and design it represents.

I noticed Jessica whispering something to Alvin.

Soon, Alvin was the first to raise his paddle to bid.

"This is really beautiful, Zander. I like it too," Tawny chirped excitedly in my ear.

I joined the bidding without hesitation.

"One million dollars, does anyone else want to bid?" Maxwell asked.

I raised my paddle impatiently and said, "Five million."

Alvin did not turn back. He smiled and waved to Maxwell, signaling he was out of the bidding.

"Congratulations, Mr. Harrison, the 'Tears of the Stars' is yours now!"