Chapter 495

Chapter 495:

Naturally, many articles would be written about his birthday.

He also knew that Fernanda had recently attracted some negative press. Although she had clarified the rumors one by one, the damage had been done—she had been slandered and vilified. It was enough to make her wary of the media.

As Fernanda glanced at Curran, her wide, expectant eyes hinted at a sense of grievance, as if she was already anticipating the backlash.

Curran sighed heavily, unwilling to let Fernanda and the Reed family get dragged through the mud. “Add a chair,” he finally ordered.

In reality, he hadn’t intended to exclude Cristian; he had simply forgotten. Cristian hadn’t joined him for a meal in years, and the staff no longer set a place for him.

Fernanda had misunderstood the situation. The chair she took wasn’t meant for Cristian but for Curran’s eldest son, Terence Reed, who was abroad and unable to join the party.

Haley quickly signaled to the staff. “Over here, add one chair next to me!”

Everyone at the table exchanged glances. For the first time in over a decade, Curran and Cristian would be sharing a meal together.

Soon, Cristian entered with Jordyn.

Jordyn greeted Curran warmly, “Curran, I’m so sorry I’m late.”

“No problem,” Curran replied with a smile. “Busy, I assume?”

“Yeah, but I couldn’t miss your birthday banquet,” Jordyn said, presenting a gift. “Wishing you many more happy returns!”

Curran thanked her.

Fernanda was surprised.

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She had assumed that Curran’s cold attitude toward Cristian extended to his associates, but Curran seemed genuinely fond of Jordyn. They appeared quite close.

Jordyn was certainly impressive.

“Young people shouldn’t overwork themselves,” Curran advised Jordyn kindly. “Make sure to eat plenty later.”

Jordyn nodded and thanked him.

When Fernanda’s eyes met Jordyn’s, she noticed her freeze. Fernanda had her head down, and Jordyn hadn’t noticed her while speaking with Curran.

Jordyn quickly recovered, smiling politely at Fernanda.

“Cristian, let’s sit over there,” Jordyn suggested.

Cristian ignored her and turned to leave.

“Stop,” Curran said, his expression serious. “This year, you’ll sit here.” He gestured toward the chair beside Haley. “Take that seat.”

Jordyn laughed, clearly pleased.

Cristian gave a faint smile and declined, “No need. I don’t want to spoil your appetite. It’s your birthday. It doesn’t matter where I sit.”

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