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“There’s no need to prepare any snacks. A cup of plain coffee will be enough,” Kyle said.
“You’re right! With a renowned artist like you, Mr. Spencer, snacks would only be superfluous. Frederick scampered off, eager to get started.
Upon hearing that Kyle had arrived, the people in the residence gathered at the door to sneak peeks.
Only Lulu had the courage to come in and greet him. “Greetings, Mr. Kyle!”
Although Lulu was not an apprentice of the Pathfinders Guild, she was familiar with the guild’s customs and had always addressed people according to how Sophie did. After all, in the guild, the only distinction was based on age or seniority, not one based on rank or status.
In the Pathfinders Guild, Lulu was never treated like a mere maid.
“You’ve grown taller and look even better now, Lulu,” Kyle said, assessing Lulu with a thoughtful expression. He was relieved that she was still here and would be accompanying them.
Lulu blushed a bit. “Thank you for your kind words, Mr. Kyle.”
Kyle sipped his coffee, casting a brief glance at Sophie. He let out a barely audible sigh.
Back in Meadow Ridge, even the smallest grievance made her want everyone in the Pathfinders Guild and even all of Meadow Ridge to know, seeking comfort from everyone.
But when something truly serious happened, she kept it all to herself, swallowing her pain.
As her eldest guild senior, how could he not feel heartache?
Everyone in the guild felt for Sophie, but was hesitant to approach. She chose to endure her struggles alone, so who would dare to trouble her further?
On the day of Helen’s gathering, ladies from both inside and outside the capital, as well as the families of high-ranking officials, all arrived at Hell Monarch Estate.
Despite the invitation being framed as a snowfall viewing event, it hadn’t snowed that day. Furthermore, the garden’s orchids had been transplanted to a secluded area. After the relocation, the blossoms hadn’t bloomed at all this year.
Even with Rafael’s return and the meticulous care of a specialist, the garden had only a few blooming flowers.
However, whether it was flowers or snow was secondary. Everyone understood well enough that Helen organized this tea party to show off.
As expected, today she wore a deep red brocade gown embroidered with large lilies. A pristine white fox fur draped elegantly over her shoulders, and her hair, touched with a few strands of gray, was styled in an elaborate updo. It was adorned with a gold crown set with rubies, giving her an air of undeniable nobility.
Eleanor had also dressed up for the occasion, but her attire paled in comparison to Helen’s splendor. After all, Helen had been pampered in the palace for many years, her skin was fair and rosy, with no wrinkles around her eyes.
In contrast, Eleanor’s skin, already dry from the winter, made the fine lines around her eyes more pronounced, and the powder she wore made her look older.
The two noble concubines did not attend, claiming illness due to the cold. But in reality, they simply didn’t wish to witness Helen showing off.
As for the other ladies and officials’ families, they had to come. Even if they had no respect for Helen, they had to show respect for the Hell Monarch.
Among them were many flatterers who lavished praise on Helen.
Jessica had brought Serena with her. Serena was dressed beautifully, her clothing and jewelry gifted by Jessica and in the latest winter fashion. With her naturally fair skin, she appeared even more charming than the flowers.
Serena had prepared thoroughly for this meeting, knowing that Helen liked to be praised for her youthful appearance.
When she greeted Helen, her face displayed a momentary look of astonishment before she quickly knelt and apologized, “Lady Helen, please forgive me. I was momentarily struck dumb by your fair skin, which surpasses that of a young maiden. My reaction was truly inappropriate.”
Hearing this, Helen immediately beamed with delight. “Which family are you from? Such sweet words! How could a woman in her forties like me compare with a young maiden?”
“My name is Serena Jaffe. I’m Blake’s younger sister. I wouldn’t dare to lie. Lady Helen, your beauty and grace are truly divine. As someone who hasn’t seen much of the world, I initially thought you were a goddess when I first saw you.”
Serena’s flattery hit its mark, and Helen was thrilled. She felt she had everything material and favored in this lifetime, but it would be wonderful if she could be admired like a goddess!
Helen beamed, her smile stretching widely. She turned to Gillian beside her, and said, “She’s such a clever girl. Reward her. Give her that coral bracelet of mine.”
Gillian hesitated for a moment, but followed the order and brought the precious coral bracelet to Serena.
Serena’s heart was soaring with joy, but she maintained a respectful and grateful demeanor.
“Thank you, Lady Helen. To receive such a generous gift today is a great honor. I will be forever grateful and will pray daily for your peace and health.”
“What a good child. Rise,” Helen said, giving Serena an approving look.
The girl’s flattery had brightened Helen’s day, making her feel completely at ease. “Come visit me often when you have the time. I would enjoy your company.”
Serena’s eyes sparkled with delight, and she almost wanted to leap with joy on the spot. However, in the presence of so many witnesses, she simply smiled and replied, “Thank you, Lady Helen. I will certainly come by regularly to keep you company.”
The other ladies looked down on Serena from the bottom of their hearts. Serena put on a respectful facade, but her words dripped with insincerity.
How could Serena liken Helen to a goddess? Goddesses were compassionate, but they didn’t flaunt themselves like Helen did.
At that moment, someone asked, “Why isn’t Lady Devin here today?”
When the question was raised, everyone realized that Sophie was absent.
It was indeed strange. Given that she was about to marry into the family, she should have been present at Helen’s tea party today.
In the midst of the confusion, Helen said coolly, “This tea party of mine isn’t an event that just anyone can attend “
Her words made everyone understand the situation-Helen clearly did not favor her future daughter-in-
law.
That made sense.
Though Sophie came from a distinguished family and had military achievements, she was a woman who had once divorced. Rafael was a prince, and he was far above her in status.
Whispers and murmurs spread among the guests. Margaret felt uncomfortable, and disapproved of Helen’s behavior. Even if Helen didn’t like Sophie, the marriage had already been confirmed, and a certain level of decorum should be maintained.
Margaret glanced at her daughter-in-law, Jessica, who was engaged in conversation with Serena. She shook her head.
After all these years, how could she not know what Jessica was scheming?
Margaret recalled how Jessica and Eleanor had tried to undermine Sophie’s reputation by spreading rumors. They had ultimately reaped the consequences of their actions. Given their character, it was unlikely they would let Sophie off easily.
Now, as Sophie’s wedding to Rafael was approaching, Helen had been introduced to a sweet-talking girl from the Jaffe family.
It was clear what kind of scheme was at play.