Rich Radiant and Over Him (Alicia and Vincent) novel Chapter 537

Melisande's gaze drifted toward the entrance of the banquet hall, landing on Clayton, who was escorting a young woman in an elegant, understated white dress.

"The Edwards family requires a strong partner. In recent years, our growth has plateaued, and we need a highly capable ally to break the stagnation. My sister has chosen Easton. He may be young, but his potential is limitless. Therefore... I also require a strategic marriage to forge a solid, binding alliance," Melisande stated, her tone smooth but dripping with an intimidating authority.

She didn't mind revealing her intentions to Natalia. In her eyes, Natalia was merely a useful idiot, not a threat to be taken seriously.

"So... does that mean you already have someone in mind?" Natalia asked, her curiosity piqued.

Melisande smirked, shifting her gaze back to Natalia. "Clayton, Micah, and Vincent. All three are at the absolute apex of our circle, and more importantly, they are all single."

It was true. Those three men were the most coveted bachelors for any heiress looking to secure power and wealth through marriage.

Natalia knew that taking down the Gentleman on her own was a pipe dream. She was lingering at the party precisely to corner Clayton, hoping to charm her way into his good graces.

Following Melisande's gaze to the girl standing beside Clayton, Natalia sneered in jealousy. "You can cross Clayton off your list. He's hopelessly hung up on his first love."

Natalia gritted her teeth. She was already seething with envy, and the last thing she needed was Melisande entering the competition.

Melisande offered a faint smile. "Clayton would be an excellent choice... but the competition is too fierce. He isn't my first priority."

Natalia let out a quiet breath of relief.

"That's why I'm leaning more toward Micah or Vincent," Melisande continued casually, setting her champagne glass on a passing tray. "It's just a shame that both of them seem completely infatuated with the newly returned heiress of the White family."

Natalia's eyes narrowed. It clicked. Melisande was here to use her.

"Miss Edwards, let's skip the games. What do you want?" Natalia asked, flashing a conspiratorial smile.

The Edwards family was a powerful asset the Gentleman had been trying—and failing—to acquire for years.

But if an adopted daughter and an illegitimate son joined forces, their combined ambition would be unstoppable.

Micah worked for the Gentleman. If he married Melisande, it would spark a brutal war. They would either ally to crush the Gentleman, or the Gentleman and Micah would turn around and annihilate the Edwards family.

Either way, the two tigers would tear each other apart, leaving Natalia free to reap the benefits from the sidelines.

Melisande's smile widened. "You certainly know the history between Alicia and Vincent. I wonder... would pulling this off be difficult for you?"

"Not at all. Vincent is still obsessed with her. With Tyrone dead, if I deliver her right into his bed, there's no way he'll turn her down. Besides... I have the perfect leverage to ensure Alicia does exactly what she's told," Natalia replied, brimming with arrogant confidence.

Melisande's smile grew even deeper.

It seemed her gamble on this fool had paid off perfectly...