"Stay here tonight, and I'll..." Keysha whispered into Sofia's ear.
Benjamin Robins, perceiving the intentions of his daughter-in-law, let out a knowing sigh. "You two carry on with your conversation. These old bones of mine are weary; I shall take a rest," he remarked, his words laden with significance, and departed for some respite.
Such a reaction left no doubt that Benjamin had silently consented to the idea suggested by Keysha.
However, Sofia pretended to be conflicted. "Well... Mrs. Robins, this wouldn't be fair to Skye," she demurred, casting herself in the role of a genteel and virtuous woman.
"You're being naive. As a woman, any perceived disadvantages would be yours to bear. Therefore, as long as you consent, this matter will be firmly decided," she declared with conviction, dismissing any thoughts of equality.
Keysha held Sofia's hand firmly, skillfully coaxing her.
Yet Sofia pretended to hesitate, refraining from giving an immediate answer, afraid of revealing her true intention.
"Don't worry, this idea is solely mine, and I'll ensure Skye never doubts your intentions," Keysha administered another dose of encouragement.
"Mrs. Robins... you're so kind," Sofia replied. She reached out and embraced Keysha while her voice trembling with emotion.
Throughout the afternoon, Sofia remained by Keysha's side at the villa, busy with embroidery and tending to the garden, all the while engaging in conversations.
As dinner commenced, all the guests gathered in the dining room, while the servants poured wine for each of them. Meanwhile, Keysha ingeniously found multiple excuses to coax Skyler into drinking more.
Skyler didn't refuse and went on to drink several glasses, and Sofia, not to be outdone, matched him drink for drink, indulging in multiple glasses herself.
After the meal, Sofia placed a hand on her head. "Mr. and Mrs. Robins, how strong is this red wine? I'm starting to feel slight dizziness," she asked, her voice betraying a subtle wavering.
"This red wine has aged over the years. You, my dear, should have informed us if you were not accustomed to drinking," Keysha reproached gently, before turning to Skyler. "Please assist Sofia to her room for some rest. I have a matter to discuss with your father."
Skyler's heart brimmed with dissatisfaction, yet driven by the desire to depart swiftly, he reluctantly set his meal aside. Assisting Sofia, he guided her away from the table and ascended the staircase.
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