Chapter 232

The sheer opulence of the main hall stole Lauren’s breath. Now she understood Christina’s insistence on bringing her. Diana, already inside, warmly greeted Christina, leaving Lauren watching with simmering annoyance. Diana, noticing Lauren’s expression, felt a surge of satisfaction. She glanced at Christina, who didn't seem to recognize Lauren.

"Mrs. Sullivan," Diana asked, "Don't you know her?"

Christina peered at Lauren. "Who is this?"

Diana chuckled. "Mrs. Vanderbilt."

Christina and her companion, Brittany, exchanged startled glances. Mrs. Vanderbilt? Dominick's mother? The implications hung heavy in the air. Would Lauren expose their past? The thought of being humiliated sent a shiver down their spines.

But Lauren felt even more awkward. She'd dismissed Paisley's family, assuming she had none in Harrowfell. Only recently, through Grayson's fragmented account of a chaotic family gathering, did she learn the truth. Dominick's refusal to discuss it only fueled her curiosity. Now, face-to-face with Paisley's parents, Lauren was taken aback. Christina's eyes, polite yet calculating, unsettled her. Brittany's restless gaze mirrored her unease.

"Are you really Paisley's mother?" Lauren asked directly.

Christina's heart pounded. "Of course. My family recently had dinner with Dominick and Paisley. A little…argument afterward, but Paisley's stubborn." She forced a laugh, unsure how much Lauren knew.

Lauren nodded. Paisley's stubbornness she understood. Since Christina mentioned dinner with Dominick, it seemed genuine. Lauren disliked Christina but suppressed her feelings. Reconciliation between Dominick and Paisley was paramount.

Stepping forward, Lauren linked arms with Christina. "My fault. I should have visited sooner. Let's keep in touch."