His Mistress is His Ex-Wife
Chapter 210: Ashton’s Birthday Party

Chapter 210: Ashton’s Birthday Party

[ Circle Event: Ashton’s Birthday Party... ]

Tonight was the second gathering for the month of the members of Circles. The grand ballroom of the prestigious York Plaza Hotel was filled with prominent men from all over York City gathered to celebrate Ashton’s birthday.

Almost everyone who attended the first event was present tonight, except for Vladimir. Vladimir only attended the event last time because of Athena’s performance.

Vladimir had no idea that Athena was attending this event as Ashton’s girlfriend.

Crystal chandeliers cast a warm, golden light over the elegantly dressed guests, the soft hum of conversation and laughter filling the air.

Ashton, looking dashing in a tailored midnight blue suit, stood at the center of attention. His easy charm and infectious smile made him the perfect celebrant for the evening.

However, what truly turned heads was the stunning woman by his side—Athena.

Athena wore a stunning, emerald off-shoulder dress that accentuated her figure, the color making her eyes stand out even more. Her hair cascaded in soft waves down her back, and her smile.

She exuded confidence and elegance as she moved gracefully, catching the light with each step.

Ashton took her hand, leading her towards a group of guests. "Everyone, I’d like you to meet Athena, my date for tonight," he announced with a proud smile.

They recognized Athena because of her signature laced mask. The men couldn’t help but be captivated by her. They greeted her with warm smiles and genuine curiosity.

Oliver, Richard, and Timothy approached them.

"I’m so honored to see you, Miss Athena," Timothy said, his eyes lingering on her a bit longer than necessary. "Ashton is a lucky man. I envy him."

Athena smiled graciously, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Thank you. It’s a pleasure to be here."

As the evening progressed, Athena found herself the center of attention. The bachelors were eager to engage her in conversation, fascinated by her intelligence and wit as much as her beauty.

Ashton kept a close eye on her, ensuring she was comfortable and enjoying herself. He never left her side.

During the dinner, Athena leaned in and whispered to Ashton, "Are Dominique and Sasha coming? I haven’t seen them yet."

Ashton fell silent at the mention of Sasha’s name. A hint of guilt and sadness reflected in his eyes.

"I’m not sure," he replied, forcing a smile.

After the meal, the lights dimmed slightly, and the band began to play a slow, romantic tune. Ashton stood and extended his hand to Athena. "May I have this dance?"

With a graceful nod, she accepted. As they glided across the dance floor, all eyes were on them.

"You look stunning tonight," Ashton murmured, his voice low and sincere.

"Thank you," Athena replied softly, her cheeks flushing slightly. "You’re not so bad yourself. Happy birthday, Ashton."

Ashton smiled, pulling her closer. "Thanks, Athena, tonight is perfect because you’re here with me."

As they swayed to the music, Ashton couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride. Not only was this his night, but he had the most beautiful woman in the room by his side.

The song ended, and the applause filled the room. Ashton led Athena back to their table, but before they could sit, one of the prominent bachelors approached. It was Timothy.

"May I cut in for the next dance?" he asked, extending his right hand to Athena.

Athena hesitated for a moment. But Timothy put on a pleading look on his face. She smiled before accepting Timothy’s dance invitation.

As Timothy led her back to the dance floor, Dominique and Sasha entered the hall. Dominique’s gaze fell on Athena right away. His expression turned grim the moment he saw her dancing with Timothy.

Meanwhile, Sasha felt anxious and uneasy. She didn’t know how to face Ashton after what happened between them. If not for Dominique, she wouldn’t attend Ashton’s birthday party.

The couple headed to the table to greet Ashton. Sasha couldn’t look straight into Ashton’s eyes. The awkwardness between them was evident.

"Happy Birthday," Dominique greeted his best friend while Sasha remained silent.

Ashton could only smile at them. But deep inside, his heart was in pain. He felt guilty for Dominique. And he was sad because Sasha seemed to ignore him.

When the couple sat down, Melody joined them, dragging Oliver with her.

"Ashton, Happy Birthday!" Melody shamelessly sat down without asking permission.

"Hi, Sasha and Dom. Why are you both late?" Melody turned to the couple.

"None of your business," Sasha responded coldly.

Oliver just laughed awkwardly. "Ahem. Why don’t we dance?"

"No. I’m tired." Melody refused him. She wanted to pester Dominique and Sasha. "Go ahead if you want."

Oliver just frowned, pursing his lips. ’Damn! This spoiled brat. I don’t want to marry her. I hope Athena and Lanny can help me with my problem.’

Oliver just waited for Athena and Timothy to finish the song. He immediately approached the two, asking for Athena’s permission. Athena didn’t hesitate to dance with Oliver.

"Miss Athena," Oliver took a deep sigh. "I really don’t want to marry Melody. What can I do?" He expressed his main concern.

But Athena just giggled. "Don’t worry, Oliver. Lanny and I already have a solution for that. I’ll give you something later."

Oliver’s eyes sparkled with joy upon hearing that. "OMG! Thank you so much, Miss Athena. You are my savior!"

"No need to mention it. Besides, I hate Melody Williams for doing this scheme against you. We will not tolerate this."

Not able to contain his happiness, Oliver suddenly hugged Athena, thanking her.

Little did they know, someone was watching them from a distance. Dominique’s jaw tightened, and his hands clenched into fists at his sides. His eyes were now cold and filled with jealousy.

"Why is he hugging her?!" Dominique muttered under his breath, barely aware that he had spoken aloud.

He watched as Athena laughed at something Oliver said, her smile radiant and genuine. The sight made his heart clench painfully.

It did not take long before Athena sensed a pair of eyes on her. She turned, her gaze meeting Dominique’s.

For a moment, the room seemed to fall away, leaving just the two of them. She saw the storm of emotions in his eyes—anger, jealousy, and something deeper, something that made her heart skip a beat.