Forsaken to Treasured: A Short Story

4. Party

News of the outcome of the Vanderburg Thanksgiving Auction spread through Northvale's elite circles. Those who witnessed the bidding revealed the artist's true identity after inquiries.

Arabella once again became a topic of conversation in Northvale. She received an invitation to Princess Lena's prestigious Christmas banquet. Princess Lena's Christmas banquet was a sought-after event in high society, particularly for young girls.

Despite this, Arabella hesitated. She feared becoming a target due to the fallout from her recent news, worried about unnecessary disputes and the potential offense it might cause the princess.

Social media became a whirlwind of discussions about Arabella's past, behavior, and family background. Arabella became the subject of countless gossip accounts, with details of her life unveiled at every turn. Privacy became a distant luxury as negative comments about her spread like wildfire online.

Lord Michael, known for his libertine ways, partly stirred this storm. He had asked her out multiple times and always met with polite declines. Once, he even invited her through her Uncle Louis. Louis suggested she go, but she feigned illness to avoid it.

Since then, whenever they met, he teased her, trying to provoke her.

Lord Michael brought up Arabella in a streamed interview, making waves.

He said, "For an artist, sudden fame's a dream. Rich collectors spend big, but is it for the art or social status? I don't want to offer conspiracy theories about art. Still, suppose someone is selling something else, or even nothing worth selling, in an artist's name, purely for themselves."

With subtle malice, Lord Michael continued, "In that case, this behavior disrespects everyone, especially other artists who work hard to create. Artists prefer appreciation for their work other than whose sugar daddy is richer."

The host curiously raised eyebrows, "Are you implying the buyer didn't buy the artwork? Someone may be aiming at the artist personally. Could you tell me more about that?"

The lord, who seemed so glib, hinted deliberately, "Wealthy collectors are throwing away money for themselves. After all, being young, beautiful, and thriving in high society's social circles is like a fish in water. To gain, you must give. But I believe all other creators prefer others to lavish money for their work's sake."

"I'm not certain. We shouldn't make snap judgments about people. Everyone has their own values and makes their own life choices. Wealth also plays a role in personal pursuits." Lord Michael smiled slightly, seemingly oblivious to the impact of his remarks.

He then referenced a young woman he knew who pursued a life of luxury and had specific opinions on gifts and fame.

Realizing that this topic would surely ignite public outrage, the host's eyelids involuntarily widened, and the smirk on his face could barely be hidden. "Are you referring to anyone?"

"No one particular." He chuckled playfully. "But I bet you know about the pricey set sculpture at that auction."

This ignited public curiosity and speculation.

Lord Michael's comments raised public interest in the sculptor Arabella De Vere, AKA Miss Romanov, prompting people to investigate her further. The media and social networks depicted Arabella as a conceited woman who used men to elevate her social status.

Public opinion on social media skyrocketed, portraying her as an irredeemable villain. Additionally, the Cavendish heir's unilateral termination of the engagement served as irrefutable evidence for Lord Michael's statements. Many believed that Samuel would not have called off the engagement if Arabella De Vere had not been at fault.