Chapter 102

“There’s no rush. We can eat first,” Everett said calmly.

Diana smiled contentedly, raising her wine glass and locking eyes with Vivienne across the table. A playful challenge flickered in her gaze as she raised an eyebrow. Vivienne had never before been invited to Everett’s birthday celebrations, but this year was different. She had, naturally, brought a gift.

Diana glanced at it—a plain, unadorned box that suggested little value. Vivienne, aware of the scrutiny, simply sipped her water, her expression inscrutable.

After the meal, Diana directed the servants to bring forth the dozens of gifts. Relatives unwrapped them meticulously, presenting each to Everett. His fondness for antiques and paintings was well-known, and most gifts reflected this refined taste. A rare quill pen from Xavier Anderson of the Julee Group stood out.

When Diana opened Natalie’s gift, she held it up with a bright smile. “Grandpa, do you like this gem?” she asked enthusiastically, handing the glittering stone to Everett.

His eyes lit up. “Is this a rare gem, one used by royalty?”

Vivienne’s gaze briefly flicked upwards, a subtle, knowing smile playing on her lips.

“Yes,” Natalie replied eagerly. “I found a collector and bought it for you. I hope you like it.”

“This is indeed valuable,” Everett chuckled. “I’d be ungrateful not to appreciate such a gift.”

He carefully cradled the gem, admiring its unique quality despite its lack of intricate carving. This type of gem, exclusive to the royal court and often given to nobility, was rare among commoners. He examined it repeatedly, captivated. Despite his usual indifference toward Natalie, he spoke with genuine sincerity. “Thank you, Natalie.”

“I’m glad you like it,” Natalie replied calmly, devoid of arrogance.

Suddenly, all other gifts seemed insignificant beside the gem's splendor.

“Natalie’s lost weight recently,” Melissa observed admiringly. “She wouldn’t say why, but now it’s clear—she’s been working to win Everett’s favor. Such devotion to an elder is rare.”

A guest chimed in, “You’re blessed, Melissa. Your son is outstanding, and your future daughter-in-law is perfect. It’s enviable.”

Another added, “If I had a daughter-in-law like Natalie, I’d consider myself fortunate.”

“Natalie’s such a good girl, Warren,” another said. “You should hold onto her! Otherwise, if she leaves, you’ll have no one to cry to!”

“Natalie and Warren are the same age and grew up together,” someone suggested. “They should get engaged soon—bring new additions to the Mitchell family.”

As the conversation grew more effusive, Natalie shyly nestled into Warren’s embrace, but sensed his distance. She leaned in, following his gaze to Vivienne. Biting her lip, she smiled softly. “Warren, what’s wrong?”

He snapped out of his reverie just as his aunt remarked, “Warren, Natalie is so devoted to you. You can’t let her down.”

Warren tightened his arm around Natalie, his expression softening as he looked at her with genuine affection. “I won’t.”

The Mitchells exchanged knowing smiles, observing the couple with satisfaction. Discreetly, they turned their attention to Vivienne, eager to see her reaction.

She remained unfazed, sipping her coffee with unyielding composure, appearing almost detached. The crowd sneered, suspecting an act, wondering how long she could maintain it.

Diana, with casual ease, remarked, “Miss Hayes, why haven’t we seen your gift? This is your first time at my grandfather’s birthday party, so surely your gift is something extraordinary?” She smiled, her eyes glinting with amusement.

“It’s nothing special,” Vivienne replied smoothly, her calm demeanor unwavering.