**TITLE: He Returned to Break and Own Me and for His Queen 176**
**Chapter 176: Conspiracy**
Arthur drained his glass in one swift motion, the amber liquid disappearing as if it were water.
Oriana cast a sidelong glance at him, her expression unreadable, before she too seized her cocktail and downed it in a single gulp.
“All done, Mr. Pendragon. Your task is finished,” she declared with a finality that left no room for argument.
Her intent was unmistakable; she wished to extricate herself from this entanglement as swiftly as possible, avoiding any further involvement.
Arthur stood momentarily dumbfounded, his surprise mirrored in Oscar’s gaze, which lingered on Oriana with a newfound intensity.
In contrast, Oriana remained resolute and unflinching, her composure unwavering.
Just then, the door to the private room swung open, and Grant, accompanied by his entourage, stepped out, flanked by attentive staff.
“Well, I can’t turn down everyone’s enthusiasm. Let’s get this going—no need for individual toasts. Everyone, raise your glasses, and we’ll do this together!” he announced, his voice booming with infectious energy.
Yael, ever the instigator, flashed a grin and gestured for the waitstaff to fill everyone’s glasses.
The attendees rose, glasses in hand, joining in a collective salute to their leaders.
Oriana and Lily exchanged glances, fully aware that resisting was futile; they reluctantly hoisted their glasses, the weight of the moment pressing down on them.
Suddenly, Grant reached over and seized the wine glass from Luna’s hand. “Luna’s not feeling well. I’ll drink for her,” he proclaimed, his tone light and teasing.
He joined in the playful banter that erupted from the crowd. “Mr. Holloway protecting his girlfriend—now that’s impressive!”
Forrest chimed in, a smirk on his face. “Usually, Mr. Holloway avoids drinking like it’s the plague. Today marks the first time I’ve seen him take the initiative. Young love really does have its charms.”
Grant’s lips curled into a subtle smile, choosing not to elaborate further as he downed the glass in one go.
Luna leaned against him, her admiration and shyness blending together, resembling a delicate bird nestled against a sturdy branch.
With Grant leading the charge, the atmosphere lightened, and everyone followed suit, raising their glasses in a toast.
Oriana maintained her focus, her gaze unwavering as she lifted her glass and took a sip, the taste of the alcohol igniting a warmth within her.
After two drinks, the alcohol began to weave its effects through her body; a gentle heat spread across her forehead.
Yet, three more glasses loomed ahead, each one a challenge she was not sure she could meet.
Finally, after enduring the relentless toasts from the leaders, Oriana felt the effects intensifying, her brow furrowing as she sank into a chair, seeking a moment of respite to regain her bearings.
But just then, Alaric appeared, a bottle in hand, making his way toward her from the first table.
Before he could utter a word, he mouthed something, but Oriana’s icy glare silenced him instantly.
Alaric could sense the shift; ever since Oriana had begun associating with Grant, her aura had transformed into something formidable.
He quickly adopted a more managerial tone. “Oriana, welcome to the family. Let’s raise a toast.”
Oriana remained steadfast in her refusal. “Sorry, I’m not good with alcohol. I can’t drink anymore.”

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