Chapter 302: Quite Embarrassed

Felix was indeed quite pleased and immediately nodded in approval. “Hayden, you’ve put thought into this.” Hayden felt even more smug. Suddenly, Hayden’s gaze shifted to Josiah. Without hesitation, he asked, “Josiah, what is the gift you brought?”

Madelyn instantly realized Hayden was seeking an opportunity to belittle Josiah. Josiah had prepared an antique painting. While valuable, it paled in comparison to a Tercet Era chess strategy book. Hayden knew this, deliberately asking the question to embarrass Josiah.

Madelyn inwardly cursed. This was outrageous! However, she could do nothing. Everyone watched Josiah expectantly. Josiah, speechless, quietly revealed the painting. He said, “Grandpa, this is an antique painting by Leonardo da Vinci. I hope you like it.”

The crowd offered polite applause, noticeably less enthusiastic than for Hayden's gift. To their surprise, Felix was overjoyed. “Of course I like it! How could I not? Josiah, you’ve really put thought into this!” After all, Josiah had previously avoided the birthday banquet altogether.

Hayden glanced at the painting with disdain, speaking sarcastically. “Josiah, it seems you’ve grown up a lot this year. After all, you never gave presents before.” He subtly highlighted Josiah's past immaturity. Moreover, Josiah’s gift was considerably less impressive than Hayden’s.

Benedict’s family grimaced. Was Hayden trying to cause trouble? Josiah felt embarrassed. Then, Madelyn clapped her hands. Immediately, two hostesses entered, each carrying a tray covered in red cloth, creating an air of mystery.

“Old Mr. Blume, this is a gift from me. I hope you’ll like it.” Madelyn humbly unveiled the cloth. On the tray sat an extraordinarily rare, intricately carved rosewood shrine, adorned with delicate and unique patterns.

Reborn to My Engagement Night