The Billionaire's Forbidden Longing

A massive gemstone, intricately carved by a master craftsman at Henry's request, held immense value beyond just money.noveldrama

"Allison, you're so young. Why rush into marriage? Sure, Alexander's a good guy, but remember, I've always got your back. If anyone messes with you, come to me, okay?" Henry's voice was firm but gentle.

Allison nodded, about to reply when a strong arm wrapped around her waist.

"Not gonna happen. Come on, let's go meet the professors," Alexander said, guiding her into the lounge.

As they opened the door, they were hit by the sound of a heated argument.

"Dwight, you jerk! We agreed Allison was my student, yet you knew about her engagement before I did!" Joe's face was red with anger.

Dwight, legs crossed, smirked. "Joe, it's not often I get one over on you. Let me enjoy this."

Joe looked like he was about to explode.

Allison quickly moved to calm him down. "Mr. Watson, please, don't get upset. I want you to officiate my wedding."

Joe's mood shifted instantly, his eyes lighting up. "That's a big deal. Leave it to me!"

With the wedding now a serious matter, Joe and Dwight stopped their bickering and got down to planning.

Allison could only watch, feeling a bit helpless.

As the engagement party kicked off, Aiden took the stage, beaming with pride.

Allison and Alexander stood behind him, her nerves showing until Alexander squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Don't worry."

The gathering was made up of close family, friends, and a few key business partners. Even though it was a relatively intimate affair, over a hundred people showed up.

"Today, we're here to celebrate Alexander's engagement. Our family warmly welcomes Allison. Come, meet everyone!" Aiden announced.

Alexander led Allison forward, introducing her. "Everyone, this is Allison, my fiancée!" Applause filled the room, and many eyes lit up at the sight of Allison.

"Wow, she's stunning. No wonder Mr. Carter is smitten."

"Mr. Carter has been single for years. I thought he wasn't into women. Turns out he likes them young!"

Whispers and judgments floated through the crowd, some women being particularly harsh.

"She's barely an adult. How shameless, seducing a man at such a young age!"

"Men love something fresh. Who can resist a beautiful young girl like her?"

"I heard she's quite cunning. Remember Sloane? She got shipped off because of Allison."

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In a shadowy corner, a female server glared daggers at Allison, inching closer with a tray in hand.

On stage, Dwight grabbed the mic. "Hey everyone, I'm Dwight, Allison's teacher. Today, I'm here as her family representative."

Gasps rippled through the room. Dwight wasn't just some random guy; he was a big deal, a renowned scientist, an academic giant.

"Is he the top-ranked scientist in the world?"

"No way. Did I hear that right? He's Allison's teacher? He only teaches PhD students!"

All eyes were on Dwight, who, despite his formal suit, still rocked his signature loafers.

At eighty, Dwight's hair was gray but neatly combed, his face lit up with a rare smile. Usually stern, he now radiated warmth.

"The Carter family has really outdone themselves," someone murmured, impressed by Dwight's presence.

Dwight continued, "Let me introduce my student, Allison. She joined the Academy of Sciences at fifteen and now holds a PhD. It might seem unbelievable, but the world of geniuses is beyond the understanding of ordinary folks!"

His words left many in the audience feeling awkward, especially those who had mocked Allison earlier. Now, they wondered if Alexander was the one who didn't measure up.

"Allison is exceptional. The Carter family may be wealthy, but Allison's brilliance is unmatched. Am I right?" Dwight's playful jab made several faces in the crowd turn red.

Aiden led the applause, "Well said! We're honored to have Allison as part of our family."

The room buzzed with excitement. Jessa and Liliana were thrilled, while Griffin gave Alexander a knowing look, as if to say, "You lucky bastard."

Alexander remained unbothered.

Dwight's pride was evident. "The Carter family has given Allison generous engagement gifts, but her own assets are nothing to scoff at. Allow me to list them."

As Dwight read the list, jaws dropped.

"Did I hear that right? A mansion in Skycrest, a CBD office building, and a commercial street?"

"Wow, suddenly it feels like Alexander is the one who married up."

Declan and Landon struggled to contain their laughter, while Hunter and Mia whispered among themselves.

"Alexander's so embarrassed. Allison's richer than him!" Mia said.

"Yeah, I thought Alexander was a big deal as the nation's wealthiest man, but Ms. Bennett owns a gold mine, a gemstone mine, and even an island!" Hunter echoed.

Declan joined in, "Seriously? Ms. Bennett is so rich? If I'd known, I would've pursued her. My God, she's the richest woman in Novaria!"

As the chatter continued, the ballroom doors swung open, and someone stormed in. "Fraud! It's all a lie! Allison, you're nothing but a fraud!"