Yvette glanced at the jewelry box and laughed lightly, crossing her legs as she settled back in her chair. “No need.”
Nellie, repeatedly rejected by Yvette, felt embarrassed and finally lost her composure. The living room fell completely silent; the servants dared not even breathe loudly. But this time, Zachary didn't scold Yvette. Instead, he stared at the jewelry box a moment before looking at Yvette, who was nibbling ham, then at Nellie, whose expression was sour. “If Yvette doesn’t want this, let it go. It looks too old-fashioned for young people. You can keep it.”
Yvette raised her head in surprise, finding Zachary somewhat interesting.
Zachary then turned to Lucas. “Go get the Heart of Lorry from my collection.”
Winona felt a surge of jealousy. Just last night, Zachary had given Yvette a villa worth over 30 million, and now the Heart of Lorry—the crown jewel he’d bought at the West Auction House for millions. Winona adored it, but every time she mentioned it, Zachary said they’d discuss it after her marriage.
Zeke, having lost the villa, and Winona, the jewelry, both resented Zachary's perceived favoritism toward Yvette; a wave of insecurity washed over them.
Nellie was on the verge of exploding. ‘How could Zachary scold me in front of the servants? This is too much!’ Noticing Zachary ignored her after ordering Lucas, Nellie realized he was angry and needed to smooth things over. “You’re right, honey. I should have thought it over. I wanted to get Yvette a gift, but I don’t know what young people like these days. I’ll make it up to her another time.”
Though her words were directed at Yvette, her gaze kept shifting to Zachary. Seeing his expression soften, she felt relieved—he was the only one she truly cared about.
Hearing Nellie, Zachary decided to let it go. “Alright, we can talk about it again when there’s something better. Now, let’s eat.”
After dinner, the Chambers family dispersed for the weekend. Zeke tried to talk to Yvette, but she brushed him off, so he left to avoid awkwardness. Nellie went out for afternoon tea with ladies from other prominent families, leaving only Zachary and Yvette at home.
In the study, Zachary watched Yvette, a pang of nostalgia stirring. She resembled Lilian so closely it felt like Lilian was there. A sad expression replaced his earlier irritation. “Yvette, now that you’re home, are you thinking about changing your last name?”
“No.” Yvette shoved her hands in her pockets, giving him a defiant, annoyed look.
Zachary nodded, unsurprised. His tone softened. “Alright, if you don’t want to change it, that’s okay. I’ll say you’re keeping your mother’s last name to honor her.”
“Is that all? If so, I’ll leave.” Yvette was satisfied; it saved an argument.
Zachary felt a headache coming on. Dealing with Yvette was challenging. She was the daughter of the woman he loved most, and he regretted their lost years. He genuinely wanted to make amends.
He added, “Actually, there’s one more thing. I’m arranging for you to attend Argrol University. Zeke and Winona are already there, so you’ll have someone to look out for you.”
Argrol University was the top school in Seacrity, its students from wealthy families or with exceptional grades. Getting Yvette in now was impossible; the semester had started two weeks ago, and the school rarely accepted new students, even from elite families. But thinking of Lilian, Zachary was determined Yvette deserved the best. To secure her a spot, he donated over 15 million dollars’ worth of lab equipment in her name, persuading the principal to make an exception. She would, however, start as a freshman.
“No need. I can get into Argrol University on my own,” Yvette responded confidently.
Zachary slammed his hand on the table, angry. “Yvette, don’t be stubborn! How do you expect to get into Argrol University on your own? Stop dreaming, and get ready. I’ll have Lucas drive you there on Monday.”
Zachary hurried out—more like fled—worried Yvette might challenge his already frayed nerves. Yvette remained puzzled. “Wait, shouldn’t I be the one walking away?”