Before they knew it, the lavish banquet was more than halfway through.
A fine layer of sweat beaded on Mr. Xavier's forehead. He turned and exchanged a look with his wife.
Understanding instantly, Mrs. Xavier stood up and walked over to the nearby wine cabinet. She retrieved a bottle of dark red wine that had been decanted into a crystal carafe long beforehand.
"It's a bit dry with just food."
Mrs. Xavier carried the carafe back to the table, her face once again plastered with an enthusiastic smile. "It's Nora's birthday today, after all. Gideon, you work so hard normally, it's rare for you to relax at home like this. Your father and I saved this bottle specifically for you."
Mrs. Xavier stepped up to Gideon's side and leaned in slightly. The dark red liquid poured smoothly from the carafe into the goblet in front of him, releasing a rich, mellow fruity aroma.
Then, she poured a small amount into Nora's glass as well.
Nora looked at the red wine in front of her, frowning slightly. "I have to get up early for the studio tomorrow. I'm not drinking tonight."
"Oh, come on! It's your birthday today. How can the birthday girl not drink?"
Mrs. Xavier instantly raised her voice, pushing the glass closer to Nora with an unquestionable finality. "Just take a little sip. It absolutely won't interfere with your work tomorrow."
Mr. Xavier also picked up his own glass, loudly echoing the sentiment.
"That's right, Gideon. Today is a good day. It's our Xavier family's blessing that Nora married you. You've taken such good care of her these past three years. As her father, I simply must toast you!"
Mr. Xavier stood up with his glass, lowering his posture completely, his tone dripping with flattery and sycophancy. "Come on, this glass is to wish you two a long and happy life together!"
Mr. Xavier held his glass mid-air, his eyes locked intensely onto Gideon, waiting for a response.
As long as Gideon picked up that glass and drank, tonight's plan would be mostly successful.
Sitting beside him, Nora coldly observed her parents' eager, ugly expressions.

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Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Love I Begged For Was Never Real
Poor Nora...
Oh my god i know frm the beginning the way story goes... Bt i really pity Nora.. Wat she had done to have all these sufferings.... Will these men catch the real culprit????...
Hey can u also upload the novel he waited she wilted...
Please update more chapter...