Chapter 442

Melody’s words sliced through the air like a sharpened blade. “Hmph, how can you expect me to greet you with a smile when you’ve kept Shelia away?”

Declan had initially harbored doubts about Debot’s claims, but the situation unfolding before him swiftly dispelled them. He wondered what kind of life Jade would have with her transgender family.

Next door, Debra continued her meal at a leisurely pace, while Randy and Erica, who had been engrossed in conversation, now quietly shelled seeds. They exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the poor soundproofing and their unexpected entertainment. Debra felt a sense of satisfaction as she perceived the escalating tension. Had Declan come alone, Melody might have feigned kindness and engaged in polite conversation. But Declan’s decision to bring Edgar was a clear sign of disrespect toward Melody, and if there was one thing Melody didn’t handle well, it was disrespect.

Declan slammed his hand on the table, his voice dropping to an icy tone. “Edgar is my son-in-law. What do you think you’re doing? Belittling the Blair and Odom families?”

Melody, undeterred, stood her ground. “Shelia is carrying my grandchild, and that makes her part of the Nichols family. Have you asked about her wishes?”

Declan scoffed. “As a father, I have the final say in Jade’s matters. Juan thinks only of his wife and disregards my daughter; I will never let her marry someone as heartless as him.”

Melody’s face flushed with anger as she rose from her seat. “Declan Blair,”

“This is the first time you’re hosting,” Randy remarked. “What’s the special occasion?”

Debra hushed him gently. “Keep your voice down. The private rooms here aren’t as soundproof as one might hope.” Randy, puzzled, complied. Marion, sitting across from Debra, quietly picked fish bones from her plate.

In the adjacent room, someone politely ushered Declan in. “Mr. Blair, this way, please, Mrs. Nichols has been waiting.”

To everyone’s surprise, Declan was not alone; Edgar accompanied him, much to Melody’s displeasure.

“Edgar is like a son to me,” Declan declared, unperturbed by Melody’s scathing expression. “Honored to receive your invitation, Mrs. Nichols. I thought it would be a good opportunity for him to broaden his horizons. I hope you don’t mind.”

Melody’s voice was as cold as ice. “Even if it’s not alright, will you leave?”

The Nichols family held significant sway in Seamar City, while the Blair family was respectable. However, in terms of wealth and influence, the Blairs were much inferior. Melody believed she had condescended to invite someone like Declan. Yet, not only did he not appreciate it, but he also brought Edgar along.

Edgar took his seat, seemingly oblivious to Melody’s hostility. “The dinner is quite lavish. Thank you for the hospitality, Mrs. Nichols.”

Melody’s retort was sharp. “It seems people from Bocton truly lack manners. I’ve heard your family is nouveau riche, which explains your behavior.”

Edgar was unfazed by her jab. “It seems you have quite a few opinions.”