Chapter 433

The Patriarch Valdemar had just raised his wine glass when the crystal chandeliers in the banquet hall dimmed abruptly.

A spotlight illuminated the center of the stage.

"Thank you all for honoring this old man with your presence at my birthday celebration."

His voice boomed across the room as his gaze swept over the assembled guests.

A brief pause. Then, a benevolent smile graced his weathered face.

"Today, I wish to formally introduce my granddaughter-in-law—Sophia Laurent."

The grand doors of the banquet hall burst open before the echoes of his words could fade.

"You senile old fool!"

A shrill female voice sliced through the air like a blade.

Every head turned toward the entrance.

Matriarch Valdemar strode in, her sandalwood cane striking the marble floor with each deliberate step. Behind her trailed Vincent Valdemar and his family of three.

All eyes locked onto the young woman beside Sebastian Valdemar.

Natalie Lockwood shimmered in a moon-white qipao, a string of pearls glowing against her slender neck. She dipped her chin slightly, revealing the elegant curve of her swan-like neck.

A deathly silence blanketed the hall.

The Patriarch's expression darkened instantly.

Once inseparable through hardship, the elderly couple had grown estranged over their conflicting philosophies on raising children. When Vincent's infidelity came to light years ago, the Patriarch had banished him from the family estate.

The Matriarch, however, believed her son had merely committed "a mistake any man might make."

"Who permitted your entry?"

The Patriarch's voice could have frozen hell itself.

The Matriarch's head snapped up. Her cane struck the ground with a thunderous crack.

"How dare you?"

"The divorce papers are already signed."

His declaration detonated like a bomb.

A collective gasp rippled through the crowd.

Damian Valdemar leaped forward. "Grandfather! Grandmother came to celebrate your birthday!"

The Patriarch didn't even glance his way.

"Security. Escort them out."

His eyes softened as they found Sophia.

"Come here, my dear."