Chapter 21

This woman, who seemed like an ordinary person with a short fuse, had somehow ingratiated herself into his family's good graces. But his grandparents didn't need her to do anything. Simply being their "lucky star" was enough to win their affection.

When Stephanie arrived later, Chris hadn't yet appeared. Grace greeted her warmly, taking her hand. "Good girl," she said. "I'm sorry you had to deal with all that."

"Mrs. Ashford, I brought you a gift," Stephanie replied, presenting a velvet box with a polite smile.

Grace's heart warmed at the gesture. It was impossible not to like her even more. "You're such a good girl!" she exclaimed, beaming. "I didn't ask you to bring me anything."

Stephanie's thoughtfulness further endeared her to Grace. In that moment, Grace couldn't help thinking, "The Hart family must be blind not to see how amazing this girl is. Why would they prefer Olivia to Stephanie?"

Stephanie smiled politely. "I thought this brooch would look nice on you."

Grace nodded, clearly pleased. "That's sweet. Actually, I have something for you, too." She took Stephanie's hand and led her upstairs.

Stephanie had brought only a simple brooch, but Grace immediately presented her with a stunning diamond necklace. Upon seeing the sparkling necklace, Stephanie instinctively shook her head. "It's too much. I can't accept this."

Grace waved it off. "No, no. This was chosen just for you. I went to Vaudémont with Claire last month, and we each bought one. You and Claire both have one now."

Whether that was true or not was irrelevant. What mattered was that Grace was treating Stephanie like family. The gift was symbolic—a gesture mirroring the one she'd given her daughter, Claire. After yesterday's events with Olivia, Grace's action was a clear reassurance to Stephanie.

Still, Stephanie hesitated. "I really can't accept this." With her relationship with Chris stalled, she felt uncomfortable accepting anything from the Ashfords.

But Grace persisted. She gently but firmly placed the necklace around Stephanie's neck. Stephanie was wearing a low-cut dress, and the diamond necklace accentuated her beauty, adding an undeniable touch of elegance.

Grace nodded in satisfaction, her smile wide. "See? I told you it was perfect for you. When I saw this necklace, I knew it was meant for you."

Stephanie sighed, realizing it was easier to comply than argue. "Well, thank you."

The two chatted and laughed as they descended the stairs, just as Chris entered. Seeing the diamond necklace around Stephanie's neck, he froze. His mind went blank for a moment. He recognized it—the necklace Grace had bought in Vaudémont last month, intended for his future daughter-in-law.