Lucas had only heard Nellie’s creepy laughter. He shook his head. “Mrs. Chambers, Mr. Chambers asked me to review tomorrow’s party details with you and check the seating plan for any necessary changes.”
Nellie stared at Lucas before looking away. “Come in.”
In her bedroom, Winona paced, phone in hand, eyes glued to the screen, hoping for a message. She’d waited from six in the evening until eleven, but nothing. Finally giving up, she tossed her phone on the table, removed her makeup, and washed up. She thought determinedly, I need to be at my best for tomorrow's party.
Winona waited for Jeremiah's reply. She'd texted him since early morning, inviting him to the party, but by midnight, he still hadn't responded. In fact, she’d likely been blocked. Yet, hope lingered. Having his number meant a chance, however small. Besides, who knew what the future held? She couldn't believe Jeremiah would remain faithful to Yvette forever; they'd tire of each other eventually. Soon, Winona drifted into a sweet, exciting dream, her sleep marked by a Cheshire cat grin.
The next day, thousands of red and yellow roses, picked the previous day and flown overnight from overseas, arrived at Seacrity for the Chambers family party. The party was to be held in their expansive backyard, over 10,000 square feet.
Zachary specifically instructed Lucas to place identical signs at the garden entrance, highlighting both the apprenticeship ceremony and the welcome home party. He wanted everyone to know he treated everyone equally.
That day, the Chambers' housekeepers, in matching uniforms, circulated, offering wine and pastries flown in that morning from Mysonna. Nellie even hired Seacrity’s most famous pastry chef, preparing forty-nine types of desserts. The party cost nearly $3.3 million, making it one of Seacrity’s most extravagant events.
Nellie instructed the driver to take Richard from the Exoir Hotel to the Chambers residence, then went to the kitchen for breakfast. Zachary, who usually slept in the guest room after arguments, had done so again last night. Nellie was accustomed to this; whenever they argued, he’d retreat silently, pretending she didn't exist.
No matter her frustration, Nellie held it in, bound by her deep love for Zachary. Life would be meaningless without him, so she always apologized first. This time was no different. Despite his public embarrassment of her, she couldn't let him go. She had to concede again. “Darling, are you awake?” she asked, knocking gently at his door. There was no answer, but she persisted patiently.
Finally, Zachary opened the door, already dressed in a dark suit, neatly tied, and wearing an antique watch. He looked at Nellie, breakfast in hand, and felt a pang of guilt, softening his usual coldness. “Have you had breakfast yet? If not, come down and join me,” he suggested.
Nellie was surprised by his offer, expecting his usual indifference. Her joy was palpable. “All right! Yes!” she chirped.
Downstairs, at the dining table, Nellie asked for another breakfast. The kitchen staff was puzzled; she’d eaten less than half an hour before, and usually ate little at parties. They wondered about this increased appetite on such an important day, but complied.
Zachary picked up the newspaper, full of Chambers family news—mostly gossip. He sipped his coffee, glancing at Nellie. “Which newspaper received exclusive rights to cover today’s party?”
An uneasy feeling washed over Nellie as she studied his seemingly casual expression. Reassured, she replied, “I was going to give it to Seacrity Financial, but their editor’s in legal trouble. So, I gave it to Seacrity Daily. Their editor promised heavy promotion, but I only gave them three invitations. Too many reporters might upset some guests.”
Zachary wasn't overly concerned. He knew Nellie’s social skills. He nodded. “Hmm, not bad. Three reporters will suffice. You’ve considered it carefully.”
Nellie beamed at his compliment. Zachary put down his coffee as Lucas returned from the garden, finally ready after working since five o’clock that morning. He was surprised to see Zachary and Nellie at breakfast together. Mr. Chambers instructed me to keep an eye on Mrs. Chambers yesterday, but today... he thought confusedly, approaching the table. “Mr. and Mrs. Chambers, the garden is ready.”
Seeing Lucas's tiredness, Zachary kindly suggested, “Why don’t you rest? There’s an evening party you can attend. Let the housekeepers handle the minor tasks. At your age, you shouldn't do everything yourself.”
Though seemingly reprimanding, Zachary showed concern. Nellie echoed this. “Yes, Lucas. Take a break. Don’t push yourself.”
Lucas was touched. It's my good fortune to have met Mr. Chambers, he thought, his eyes moist. He’d lived comfortably, rarely facing trouble, a rarity amongst butlers in upper-class families. As for Nellie’s concern, he listened with a cynical understanding—she’d insisted on late-night garden supervision. And now this? he fumed inwardly.