In the Lap of Luxury
Lap of Luxury Chapter 173

Chapter 173 Drive Her Further Away

Celia was completely shocked by Benjamin’s firm stance. In fact, she was too afraid to even

move.

“Mom…” she muttered.

Susan was also taken aback by Benjamin’s harsh decision, but she attempted to reason with him. “Ben, what on earth are you doing?”

“You played a role in her actions as well. Overindulging a child can lead to terrible consequences,” Benjamin firmly responded.

Susan was left speechless. “Ben …”

Feeling utterly humiliated, Celia fled the scene without giving it a second thought.

Worried that Celia might do something rash, Susan quickly followed as she called out, “Cece, wait for me!”

Grace had no interest in their family matters, but the outcome was somewhat satisfactory.

At that moment, Xander walked up to her, patting her shoulder as a gesture of consolation. ” The truth is out. Let’s go.”

Grace nodded in response. “Alright.”

Xander cast a cold, emotionless glance toward Benjamin. His icy stare sent a shiver down Benjamin’s spine as he observed the two standing together, a sight that was hard to behold.

“Grace, now that you’ve got what you wanted, are you satisfied?” Benjamin remarked with a

less–than–friendly tone, with one hand in his pocket.

Grace smirked. “It’s not about being pleased. It’s more like someone digging their own grave.”

At this moment, Benjamin couldn’t help but feel that Grace had become a stranger to him. The Grace he used to know previously hadn’t exhibited this level of assertiveness.

“Celia’s current situation is the result of her own actions, but you had the option to show mercy,” he said.

This was what puzzled him the most.

From what he knew, Grace was a kind–hearted person who wouldn’t destroy the future of a young girl in front of everyone like that. However, the current Grace was relentless.

How would the Hawkins family establish themselves in their social circle after this?

‘Show mercy?” Grace rolled her eyes, showing no inclination to be lenient.

+15 BONUS

“Before you respect someone, they need to have some self–respect first.”

It was clear that Celia had been deliberately provoking her, but Grace had chosen not to go along with her.

Xander firmly stood by Grace’s side and remarked with a cold tone, “Mr. Hawkins, it seems you haven’t quite grasped the situation. Are you willing to go to any lengths just to protect your family?”

Benjamin retorted without mincing words, “Mr. Fulton, I’m talking to my ex–wife. It’s none of your business.”

Xander showed no signs of backing down.

“As long as it involves Grace, it’s my business as well. Mr. Hawkins, it seems that Hawkins Group hasn’t been too busy lately, allowing you the leisure to meddle here.”

Upon hearing this, Benjamin’s expression changed instantly.

Hawkins Group had recently faced significant setbacks, losing several major projects, all of which were attributed to Lewis Corporation.

Aaron had always been a man of his word, so Benjamin wasn’t surprised by this. However, he hadn’t anticipated Xander to become involved in this matter as well.

“Are you declaring war against me?” Benjamin felt like his authority was being challenged.*

“You can see it that way. The future will reveal who will prevail in the business world,” Xander responded.

Their eyes locked with tension mounting. Neither was willing to back down an inch. Xander had already harbored the intention of teaching Benjamin a lesson.

“Gracie, let’s go!” Xander reached out and took Grace’s hand.

Grace hesitated for a moment and instinctively thought about withdrawing her hand. However, she found herself momentarily unable to react when she looked into Xander’s deep, captivating eyes.

She allowed Xander to lead her as they left the scene with confidence.

As they walked away, Benjamin’s hands clenched silently. Frederick, who had been observing the situation from the sidelines, finally stepped forward.

“Buddy, acting like this may only drive her further away,” he commented.