Heir of Deception | (for mature audience)

Chapter 26: Christian

Christian

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As I glanced toward the elevator, I spotted Alexandria's parents and sister arriving. I excused myself from my conversation and trailed closely behind Alexandria to greet them. Earlier that day, she had voiced her apprehension about their arrival, and now that they were finally here, it felt as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Alexandria had also insisted we wait for them before starting dinner—a sentiment I respected, even if it meant delaying our meal.

My attention was drawn to a familiar face among the newcomers: Lorenzo Davenport, son of Maurice Davenport, the CEO of Davenport Hotels, a renowned hotel chain. Although we had never conducted business together, I was well aware of his family’s prominence in the hospitality industry.

"Hello!" Alexandria beamed, her voice bright with enthusiasm. "I'm so glad you guys could make it!"

"Traffic was awful, but we made it," Anastasia replied with a warm, welcoming smile. "Congratulations to you both!" She enveloped Alexandria in a tight hug.

She moved over to hug me and I stood to the side, feeling a bit awkward. Instead, I extended my hand for a handshake. We weren’t particularly close, and for now, only my sister and Alexandria shared that intimate gesture with me.

"Thank you," Alexandria said, her eyes sparkling with joy.

"Congratulations," Lorenzo echoed, nodding in approval.

I couldn't help but notice the family's affinity for hugs. Anastasia embraced Alexandria warmly, while Lorenzo received only a smile and a handshake in return. That was my girl—maintaining a sense of decorum even in familial chaos. She showed them toward the food and drinks, while we stayed with her parents, an uneasy feeling settling in my stomach.

"Congratulations," her father said, though his tone was cold, his gaze fixated on the necklace around Alexandria's neck.

"Thank you," Alexandria replied, her voice steady. "Christian got it for me." She placed her hand on the necklace, a soft smile playing on her lips.

His disapproving eyes shot in my direction, and I held his gaze firmly. "It looks wonderful on her, doesn’t it?"

"Yes, yes, it does," he replied, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

"Let me show you to your seats," Alexandria said, her voice brightening as she guided them to the table.

I followed closely behind, noting they would be seated next to my parents. This arrangement would allow my father's wife Rebecca, to keep them company, giving Alexandria the space to relax. She had worked tirelessly to make this night perfect, and I was determined not to let her family ruin it.

"Why would you wear something so revealing, Alexandria?" her mother questioned, her tone low but sharp enough for me to catch every word.

"Mom, not tonight," her sister interjected, trying to defuse the tension.

"I'm simply asking a question. That dress doesn’t look flattering on her," her mother continued, her criticism slicing through the air like a knife.

"What's your problem, woman?" I snapped, my voice sharper than intended.

I had been raised to respect my elders, but respect is a two-way street. If she couldn’t show respect to her daughter—my fiancée—then why should I extend it to her? We were away from the main crowd, and I seized the opportunity to speak my mind.

"Excuse me?" she replied, taken aback.

"You do not get to come here and ridicule my fiancée's appearance," I shot back, my voice firm.

"Christian, it's fine," Alexandria said, attempting to calm the situation.

"No, I won't stand by while she criticizes everything about you, not in front of me. I don’t care who you think you are, but you will not disrespect my fiancée ever again." My protectiveness flared. "If you came to celebrate us, you’re welcome to stay, but if not, I will gladly arrange your flight back to Los Angeles."

"How dare you speak to me that way! You think you can just waltz in here and act like you know what's best for her?" Elizabeth shot back, her voice taut with indignation.

"You're damn right I do," I retorted, my frustration boiling over.

"Don’t you dare lecture me about my daughter," she hissed, her eyes narrowing in fury.

"I'm not lecturing you, I'm calling you out," I said, my voice steady. "You sit there, pretending to care while tearing her down with your bullshit. If you think your opinion matters more than her happiness, you're sorely mistaken."

" Lets just sit down. " Anastasia says, pulling her mother away.

“I’m sorry. You look wonderful, dear,” Elizabeth said, her demeanor shifting as she backed down, her tail between her legs.

“Thank you,” Alexandria replied, forcing a polite smile, though I could see the tension in her eyes.

I feared I might have ruined the night for her, but I didn't care. Elizabeth had no right to criticize her daughter, especially considering all the struggles Alexandria had faced, including her eating disorder. She was getting better now that she was with me. I would rather lose Elizabeth's respect than see Alexandria revert to the dark place she had been before we got together.

" Thank you. " She smiled over at me. " Thank you for standing up for me. "

" Always, princess. Always. " I said planting a gentle kiss on her cheek as we walked away.

The rest of the night was a success.