Chapter 12: Winford's Gift

“Who upset you?” Winford asked.

Ophelia glanced at him, silently whining. Then she answered, “No one.”

Watching her walk away, Winford hesitated before asking Graham aside, “Why is Ophelia upset?”

Graham was slightly surprised. “Seriously? Since when does Mr. Pruitt care about anyone?” he thought. “And how would I know? I’m not her husband.” He didn’t dare say this aloud.

Affecting experience, he said, “Sometimes reasons aren’t important. You just need to cheer her up.”

Winford pondered. “How?”

Graham racked his brains. “Mrs. Pruitt is a student at Ventura University, right? Since they’ve been offering to send you roses recently, why not have them delivered to her?”

Ventura University, a prestigious institution with a century-long history, was renowned for its spectacular rose garden, a summer tourist attraction featuring rare, university-cultivated varieties. These exclusive roses were gifted as an honor to select recipients—famous alumni or outstanding students.

Ventura University had been inviting Winford to an event, but he'd shown little interest, leaving Graham to handle their correspondence. Yesterday, Graham had received a call inquiring about Winford's preferred rose varieties. While others received pre-selected blooms, Winford could request any variety. Yet, Winford, and Graham, considered the roses inconsequential. Graham had replied that Winford disliked flowers.

Graham suggested, “Since Mrs. Pruitt is a student, my guess is she'd appreciate the roses. Mr. Pruitt, it’ll be a big surprise.”

After considering this, Winford nodded. “I’ll leave it to you.”

Graham immediately called Ventura University’s coordinator, who responded enthusiastically, “Of course. It’s an honor Mr. Pruitt likes our roses. We’ll deliver them now!”

Unaware of the surprise, Ophelia was speaking with Erin. Erin’s birthday party was next week, and she'd invited Ophelia, adding, “Maybe Mr. Pruitt will attend, too?”

Ophelia nearly laughed. Erin knew Winford's influence; Minston's elite couldn't secure such an invitation. What made Erin think she could?

“I don’t think so,” Ophelia said bluntly.

“Why? Didn’t you tell him? I know we aren't qualified, but you’re his wife now…” Erin pressed.

“I told him. He’ll be at my mother’s birthday. You’re not my mother,” Ophelia interrupted.

Erin’s smile froze. Her expression darkened as she hung up, deeply irritated. Had Ophelia done this deliberately? She reflected, “Am I overthinking it? The old Ophelia would never have spoken like this. She was stupid. But she's changed since marrying Winford! That damned girl!”

Ophelia, in her Sunset Vista bedroom, smiled sarcastically after hanging up. Nearby, in the guest bedroom, Elva passionately participated in Ventura University’s freshman group chat, enjoying the attention.

She took a photo of the downstairs garden and posted it: “Elva: The sun is scorching. I don’t wanna step out at all.”

The photo showcased the meticulously maintained garden, revealing her family's wealth. The group chat erupted with admiration.

After some time, the conversation shifted. Nikki mentioned Ventura University's rose giveaway, expressing envy. John pointed out that wealth or influence also secured roses, mentioning some freshmen recipients. Jenny asked Elva if she'd received roses, requesting a stem.

Elva initially ignored the tag, then hesitated, wanting to boast of her access to anything she desired. Then Madeline knocked, "Elva, someone from Ventura University sent roses. Are they for you?"

Elva's heart leaped. She rushed downstairs, but the delivery man said, “We hope Mr. Pruitt likes them.”

“Mr. Pruitt wants them?” Elva asked.

He nodded.

Madeline nudged Elva, “I bet they're for you! No one else here has Ventura University ties.”

Madeline continued, “Mr. Pruitt promised to reward you after your admission, and that bitch took your bedroom. This must be his amends.”

Overjoyed, Elva said, “Mr. Pruitt isn’t here. I’ll take the roses.”

The servants fawned over her. “See? Mr. Pruitt cares about you. How thoughtful!” Someone boldly stated, “I think we’ll soon be calling Elva Mrs. Pruitt.”

Blushing, Elva felt complacent and shy. “Enough, go back to work,” she said, lifting her chin.

Upstairs, she photographed the roses from various angles and posted them. Nikki exclaimed about its size and rarity. Jenny again pleaded for a stem.

Elva, ignorant of roses, was pleased by their excitement. She readily agreed to Jenny's request.

Meanwhile, Ophelia received a call from Winford. “Have you received my gift?” he asked.