Reading Juicy Gossip in Her Mind

Chapter 205: Is He Waiting for Dakota? (+5 Pearls)

The elders from both sides introduced their younger family members. Caleb, the eldest Hampton son and host, took the lead in entertaining guests. He spoke with refined elegance and grace. Though not as handsome as Josiah, his demeanor was extraordinary. While perhaps not as exceptionally skilled as Alexander, he was undoubtedly among the best. No wonder the Hamptons chose him as heir.

Audrey, that lunatic! She already has such a good man and is still discontent. She's incredibly greedy.

Some Quirk family members met Caleb for the first time, immediately forming a positive impression. Hearing Isabella's inner thoughts, they wholeheartedly agreed: Caleb was exceptional, and Audrey was ungrateful. Reflecting on Audrey's troubles with Josiah, their sympathy for Caleb deepened.

As Caleb made pleasantries, he felt a sudden chill, causing him to shudder.

"The ballroom for the wine tasting is ready," he announced. "Please forgive any shortcomings. Josiah, would you accompany everyone there?" Given Alexander and Josiah's friendship, Caleb wanted Josiah to be hospitable to his friend.

Turning around, however, he saw a distracted Josiah. Rumor had it he'd fought with his girlfriend. Caleb knew he couldn't let Josiah's emotions affect the event. Patting Josiah's back, he chuckled, "Josiah, don't just stand there; attend to your friend."

Josiah, with dark circles and low spirits, looked lovesick. Regaining composure, he led the Quirks into the ballroom. Noah and Lorelei kept David and Selena company while Caleb finished preparations.

"Hubby, I need to touch up my makeup," Audrey whispered, staying close to Caleb. He nodded.

Seeing Audrey lagging behind, Isabella realized something. Good heavens, I almost missed the exciting plot!

The Quirks entering the ballroom perked up, eager to hear Isabella's thoughts.

Dakota was already there, but a sulking Josiah was unaware. What good timing! Since Dakota's here, we're at the opening credits, it seems.

The Quirks were stunned. The ballroom felt like a fairyland, with wine bottles, glasses, and utensils arranged beautifully under a crystal chandelier. Servers poured wine at each display table. Musical instruments awaited a band.

The Quirks' surprise was mistaken by the Hamptons for astonishment at the venue's grandeur. Noah and Lorelei felt proud.

Lorelei chuckled, "Caleb and Audrey orchestrated all this."

Though unimpressed by the décor, the Quirks offered compliments after Lorelei's comment. The arrangement was impressive.

"Tonight's the first wine tasting we've hosted," Noah smiled. "I hope our guests enjoy it."

"It's well done," David remarked objectively.

"As long as it makes an impression," Noah added joyfully.

Oh, poor Mr. Noah. The Hamptons plan to focus on this project, but their eldest daughter-in-law is using it to target their youngest son's girlfriend. If things go wrong, it might leave a lasting impression on their guests. Hearing Isabella's sarcastic thoughts, everyone looked at the joyful Noah and Lorelei, silently sympathizing. A husband hopes for a virtuous wife, but Noah and Lorelei had to endure Audrey.

Confused by the Hamptons' odd expressions, Noah and Lorelei wondered if something was amiss.

After seating arrangements were made, Josiah sat beside Alexander. Instead of showing enthusiasm at seeing his friend, he distractedly checked his phone.

Is he waiting for Dakota to contact him?

Everyone glanced at Josiah. His expression was dark. He'd been giving Dakota the silent treatment for three days, but she hadn't contacted him. Is she feeling guilty? Or playing hard to get? If she's sincere, shouldn't she apologize?

The more Josiah thought about it, the angrier he became. He almost sought Dakota out to demand an explanation, but pride held him back.

Seeing Isabella's eagerness for gossip, Alexander decided to find some. Turning to Josiah, he asked, "What's wrong? You seem off."

Josiah was about to complain when he saw Isabella practically leaning on Alexander. Even without looking at them, her gossip-ready posture killed his desire to vent. With elders present, he hesitated. "Nothing."

I waited so long for this? As expected, he can't speak up.

Alexander shot a resigned glance at Isabella. However, enjoying her presence, he smiled, hoping she'd stay. But Isabella sat up straight.

It's starting! Audrey's talking to Dakota about boyfriends. Is this a scheme? I want to see it live! Should I find an excuse to go upstairs?

The Quirks felt anticipation. Witnessing the gossip was good enough; finding an excuse to get closer would be challenging. Alexander glanced at his shoulder, pursed his lips, and looked at Isabella. He raised his hand.

Isabella was devising a plan when she felt a brush against her lips. It wasn't the first time; she immediately recognized it and looked at Alexander in surprise. What's he doing? Perhaps due to his confession, she was sensitive to his actions.

"Your lipstick is smudged," Alexander said. Turning to Josiah, he asked, "Where can my wife touch up her makeup?"