My Substitute Wife is a Bigwig (Loud and Lily) novel Chapter 168

Lily had initially thought that not many people would come. But as she looked around, she found that everyone had shown up.

She didn't invite Bobby and Poppy. This kind of event wasn't suitable for them. They might draw unwanted attention with so many people around.

Ian snapped out of his astonishment. Nodding with understanding, he said, "Lily, you go ahead. We'll take care of ourselves."

Lily didn't say anything further. She headed to the center of the banquet hall alongside Loid and Melanie.

Many prominent figures attended the Lauriers' banquet. As the head of the Woodley family, one of the Four Great Families of Bridgeport, Joseph had received their invitation early on. He arrived at the venue fairly early.

He usually avoided such events unless absolutely necessary, so his presence was a rare occurrence. However, he had to be present on this occasion. He couldn't refuse the Laurier family's invitation. More importantly, it was because Lily would be there. Thus, he needed to be there to show support for her.

Maxwell was the top official of Lagersfield. Of course, he was present too, with Beatrice in tow. Both he and Joseph saw Lily from afar but didn't approach her. Tonight was her night, so they thought they should refrain from stealing her spotlight.

Melanie started to speak into the microphone. "Thank you all for attending our banquet. I would like to introduce my daughter-in-law to you. Everyone, this is Lily Brooks."

Lily nodded at everyone quite indifferently.

Knowing her personality, Melanie smiled and said, "She's feeling shy, so please don't mind her. I won't keep dragging on with unnecessary words. Let's start the banquet. Enjoy yourselves, everyone!"

Lily was chatting casually with Anya and Ian when Shannon approached them. She gave Shannon a perfunctory glance before looking away.

Shannon was dressed in a light yellow dress with her hair pinned back. She looked every bit the sensual beauty.

She raised her glass with a smile, "Congratulations on finally being recognized by the Laurier family."

Before Lily could respond, Ian cut Shannon off, "What do you mean by 'finally'? The Laurier family has always recognized Lily. Stop vying for attention!"

Shannon ignored Ian and continued to talk to Lily, "I think there were some misunderstandings between us. I believe there's no need for sisters to keep holding grudges. I hope you can forgive me for any wrongs I've committed in the past."