Chapter 640
Charlie was usually patient with the younger generation and rarely lost his temper, unless they targeted Tiffany. Tiffany was his precious daughter; he wouldn't tolerate even a harsh word spoken to her. Daisy's words, however, felt like a curse, an ominous prediction.
"Charlie" Daisy realized her hastiness and immediately apologized. "Sorry, Charlie. I shouldn't have said that."
She then turned to Tiffany, saying aggrievedly, "Tiffany, you won't hold it against me, right?"
Tiffany offered a half-smile. "What if I insist on holding it against you?"
Daisy choked, biting her lip, tears welling in her eyes. "Tiffany, why are you being so mean? You know I meant well, so why are you blaming me?"
Tiffany sneered inwardly, Now she's twisting things and blaming me for her mistake?
Tiffany raised her eyebrows, about to respond, when Richard's deep, cold voice cut through the air. He addressed Tiffany, not Daisy:
"Tiffany, when will you announce our marriage on social media?" Richard's voice, resonant and calming, held a hint of helplessness and affection.
The implication was clear: Daisy's suggestion that Tiffany would be abandoned was false. It wasn't Tiffany who might leave Richard; it was Richard who felt insecure, constantly fearing rejection.
The power dynamic in their relationship was obvious.
Tiffany blinked, a smile playing on her lips. He's showing me so much respect, humbling himself to boost my ego.
Clearing her throat, Tiffany leaned forward, cupping Richard's chin. She kissed him, smiling brightly. "We had a wedding. We're married. Don't worry. I'll always love you."
Richard readily agreed. "Um, thanks for marrying me and falling in love with me."
Their exchange was so sweet, oblivious to the onlookers, who were filled with envy.
The Kelley family servants were thrilled, their eyes shining with pride. Who would have thought the always-reserved Mr. Hampton would be so humble with Miss Kelley? He's decisive in the outside world but a loyal dog at home, domineering yet gentle.
Even the servants noticed; Thalia certainly did. She looked at Richard with satisfaction.
Though Charlie remained silent, his pursed lips betrayed his agreement.
Only Daisy, anticipating Tiffany's supposed rejection, was stunned. Mr. Hampton is so humble towards Tiffany? No, I don't believe it! Tiffany must have convinced Richard to play along to save face!
Daisy gritted her teeth, about to speak again, when she met Thalia's knowing gaze—an investigative, assessing look, sharp and perceptive. Thalia suspected ulterior motives.
Daisy's heart skipped a beat. She quickly masked her jealousy, asking sheepishly, "Aunt Thalia, may I stay for dinner? It's been ages since we've had a family meal."
Her tone was carefully humble and ingratiating, like the sweet, obedient child she once was.
Thalia hesitated, but Daisy was her niece. Reluctantly, she nodded. "Since you're here, let's eat together."
Daisy beamed. "Thank you, Aunt Thalia."
Dinner was served. Servants quickly set the table and discreetly withdrew. Charlie and Thalia sat at the head, Tiffany beside Richard.
Eric, ever close to his sister, was about to sit next to Tiffany when he saw Daisy trying to sidle up to Richard.
How dare this tramp seduce Richard? Doesn't she know he belongs to Tiffany? Eric thought angrily, shouting, "I'll sit here!"
Before Daisy could sit, Eric claimed the seat. The commotion drew everyone's attention. Daisy reluctantly moved to sit opposite Tiffany.
Charlie said, "Everyone, let's eat. The food will get cold." He then looked at Richard with a complex, yet pleased expression. "Richard, make yourself at home. We're family now."
This was Charlie's full acceptance of the marriage.
Richard responded, eating elegantly, even placing a piece of steak on Tiffany's plate.
Daisy, consumed by jealousy, thought, They might be pretending, but their eyes don't lie. Richard always prioritizes Tiffany, caring for her in every way, so naturally, as if he's done it a thousand times.
Her jealousy grew. She ate listlessly, accidentally dropping her fork. Before the maid could pick it up, Daisy stopped her. "I'll do it myself."
She bent down, using the table as cover, reaching for Richard's pants. Men love a thrill. I doubt Richard can resist my teasing. Maybe he's pretending to love Tiffany while secretly enjoying some fun…
The corners of her mouth curled into a smirk. As her hand neared Richard's pants, an invisible barrier appeared, like an impenetrable glass.
Daisy was confused. What's wrong? She tried again, but her hand wouldn't budge. When she changed direction, the barrier pulsed with electricity.
"Ah!" Daisy recoiled, but it was too late. A jolt shot through her arm, causing sharp pain. She hit her head on the table, screaming as she fainted.
Thalia saw everything. "What happened? Help her!"
The servants rushed to her aid. Daisy was placed on the sofa.
The family doctor examined her. "Nothing serious. Probably just hit her head."
"That's a ridiculous way to faint," Charlie grumbled. "This was supposed to be a family dinner, and Daisy has the nerve to crash it. And then this?"