Chapter 764

Eloise held her daughter's hand, about to speak, when she heard a car approaching. Her face fell. "Your father is back."

Joseph entered shortly afterward, carrying a bag. He was surprised to see Eloise and Arianna in the living room. "Ari, you're home too," he said, walking toward them. "Perfect. I have one for each of you."

"What is it?" Arianna asked, smiling as she stood and took the bag. She opened it and peered inside. "Wow, perfume!"

Seeing her surprised expression, Joseph smiled. "This is our company's first perfume, and it's sold out! I bought two bottles directly from the factory for you both to try."

His smug look annoyed Eloise. She knew his pleasure stemmed from the perfume's creator—a person she disliked—not the product itself. Unhappy, she couldn't feign joy. Her gaze remained indifferent, as if he were insignificant.

"If I'd known you were buying it, I wouldn't have bought one," Arianna said remorsefully, setting down the bag. Joseph was startled. "What? You bought one?"

"Of course! It's our company's first perfume, and Damian is responsible. It's significant, so I had to buy one!" Arianna replied, holding up the bottle. "Mom even tried it. It smells good, right, Mom?"

Eloise understood Arianna's intention. Though unhappy, she replied flatly, "Yes."

Joseph saw his wife's displeasure. He knew she resented being caught in the middle for years, and that challenging her patience would be unwise. Peaceful coexistence with Elizabeth, if possible, was preferable. Eloise's acceptance was more important than media scrutiny.

"Eloise, you smell lovely today," Joseph said, smiling. "By the way, where's your sapphire necklace?"

Eloise sneered, ignoring him.

Having reflected, Eloise no longer sought his affection; her focus was on her shares, the company's assets, and control. Her sneer embarrassed Joseph, leaving him speechless.

Arianna quickly interjected, "Dad, that necklace is too precious. Mom wouldn't wear it daily; she keeps it for special occasions."

"Really?" Joseph, unconvinced by his wife's expression, conceded after Arianna's explanation. "Ten million is expensive indeed."

Eloise glanced at Joseph, silent.

"Ari, come with me." Joseph removed his tie and headed to the home office, attempting to ease the tension.

Arianna winked at her mother. "Coming!" She followed Joseph.