Chapter 47

Wanda’s expression was dark. She was Yasmin’s stepmother, making her Caleb’s mother-in-law. However, Gracie kept referring to the emerald bead necklace as a family heirloom. Was Gracie ignoring her? Besides, who had actual proof the necklace belonged to Annie? Gracie was making it sound as if they had stolen Yasmin’s rightful inheritance. How would others perceive them in the future?

“Ms. Veronica, you’re twenty-four this year, aren’t you? Have you found a suitor yet?” Gracie asked, sipping her tea.

Veronica’s heart leaped, believing Gracie approved of her. She replied with a sweet smile, “Not yet, Mrs. Grant Senior.”

Gracie’s expression remained warm, but a sharp glint in her eyes made Veronica shudder.

“Perfect. There are many ladies here today and many eligible bachelors. Perhaps we could help you find a suitable match. Just tell us what type of man you like. The sooner you settle on a match, the sooner you can settle down.”

Eager to please Gracie, the women present immediately began recommending eligible bachelors.

Veronica’s face paled. She stammered, “…”. The man she liked was Caleb. How could they introduce her to someone else? What was Gracie implying?

“Veronica, you still haven’t given Mrs. Grant Senior your birthday wishes. Go on!” Wanda urged, discreetly tugging on Veronica’s hand.

Veronica forced a smile and offered her wishes. However, Gracie remained turned away, clearly uninterested. In contrast, when Yasmin approached, Gracie beamed, taking Yasmin’s hand and caressing it gently.

Failing to achieve their goal, the Whitmore family left disappointed.

“Mrs. Grant Senior, I’m sorry I overslept,” Yasmin apologized softly. She remembered setting an alarm. Why hadn’t it rung?

Gracie smiled brightly. “I understand. Why would I blame you? You had a long night.” She winked at Yasmin.

Yasmin’s eyes widened. How did Gracie know about last night?

Gracie smirked.

“Did he tell you?” Yasmin asked incredulously.

“He only mentioned you slept late and needed to rest. He even told us not to disturb you!” Gracie chuckled, clearly taking Caleb’s side. “See! He loves you so much!”

Yasmin was speechless. He might as well have announced they had slept together!

Yasmin uncomfortably scratched her neck. Her high-collared gown suddenly felt like a deliberate attempt to hide something. She averted her gaze, only to lock eyes with someone in the crowd.

Caleb stood aside, talking to a guest. He met Yasmin’s gaze briefly before turning away, excusing himself and striding toward her.

Yasmin instinctively stood, preparing to leave. Caleb blocked her path. “Are you not feeling well?” he asked.

Yasmin remained silent. Caleb touched her forehead, but she recoiled. “What are you doing?”

Caleb smirked. “Mrs. Grant, are you feeling guilty?”

“You’re the one who should feel guilty!” she retorted.

He looked down at her, a teasing smile playing on his lips. “’Twasn’t I who initiated it last night. I have nothing to feel guilty about.”