Theo clenched his fists. “But-
“Have you forgotten? Just last week, your father decided to hand Harrington Group over to your younger brother, who’s still in middle school. I have no idea what he’s thinking!” Eleanor snapped.
“The Harringtons used to be one of the most respected families in Castanea. Do you remember how proud we once were? And now, not only has our family fallen on hard times, but we’re about to be completely destroyed by your useless father. If that happens, I won’t even have the pride to hold my head up.”
She gripped Theo’s shoulder and said firmly, “Theo, you’re the Harringtons‘ only hope. If even you give up, then our family really is finished. How can you throw away such a bright future for woman who already belongs to someone else?”
Theo pressed his lips together, and a trace of hesitation appeared its eyes. Though it lasted just a moment, Eleanor noticed the flicker of doubt.
“You know me, Theo. I don’t ask for much. I just want to see you succeed. I want you to reclaim the Harrington family from your father, restore our name, and make sure we don’t become a laughingstock.”
She coaxed, “You’ve always been smart and sensible, Theo. I know you understand how I feel, don’t you?”
Theo fell silent.
After a long pause, he finally nodded and muttered, “Alright, Aunt Eleanor.”
“That’s my good boy,” Eleanor said with a satisfied smile as she patted his head. “It’s almost time. Go get ready and take the gift I prepared for Ms. Lancaster with you. Girls love receiving presents ”
At the Lancaster residence, the welcome home party was lavishly arranged.
“It looks like Mr. and Mrs. Lancaster really do care about the daughter they lost all those years ago. Even this welcome banquet is done so lavishly,” someone whispered.
“No kidding. I heard Mr. Dominic even postponed his wedding just to welcome his sister back.”
“Seriously? Is the wedding with Ms. Watson still happening?”
“Who knows…”
In the lounge area, Shirley could feel the sympathetic glances being thrown her way. She tightened her grip on her wine glass.
“It’s so annoying,” she muttered irritably.
“They’re just gossiping. No need to take it to heart,” Frederick said, tapping his glass against hers. “If Mr. and Mrs. Lancaster, along with Dominic, are so invested in this, Ms. Lancaster, why not try to get on her good side? It could make your future in the Lancaster family a bit easier.”
Shirley frowned. “You know I’ve never sucked up to anyone my whole life.”
She was born into wealth herself. Why would she ever need to flatter anyone?
Besides, she was already in a foul mood after losing face the other day because of Frederick’s son, Samuel.
“I know. You’ve been wronged,” Frederick said, softening his tone “I already gave Sam a good scolding. And look, I even bought you a gift. All you have to do is give it to her in your name and say a few kind words.”
He opened a delicate gift box, revealing a stunning diamond necklace.
1/2
Chapter 513
+25 BONUS
Shirley’s eyes flashed with envy. “It’s beautiful.”
“I’ll get you an even better one next time,” Frederick said coaxing.
Finally, Shirley huffed and took the box. However, her expression suddenly shifted as she glanced toward the entrance.
It was Hannah.
Shirley couldn’t help but wonder how Hannah actually had the nerve to show up at the Lancaster residence.
As she recalled how she had nearly been thrown to the ground that lay, Shirley was overcome with humiliation and simmering
resentment.
She clenched her fingers so tightly her knuckles turned white. It wasn’t until her nails dug into her palm and pain shot through her hand that she finally loosened her grip.
“What’s wrong?” Frederick asked.
“Nothing,” Shirley replied, her gaze fixed on Hannah.
She glanced down at the gift box in her hand, then slowly curved her lips into a subtle, knowing smile.
“I just thought of a fun little game to play.”
