From Ashes of Scandals to His Embrace novel Chapter 453

“Oh, I’m honestly jealous. Why couldn’t we have a sweet girl like Laurinda in our family? She’s so bright and graceful. Not only did she help our Cathleen, but even my troublemaker, Irvin, earned a guaranteed spot at The Cabinda University through a competition Laurinda recommended. Our whole family doesn’t even know how to thank her.”

Edna, you’re giving me too much credit. Irvin is amazing all on his own, that’s why he got in—not because of me. Please don’t say it like that or everyone will want me to help with their problems. What would I do then?

Laurinda put on her best ‘don’t trouble me’ face, and the entire room burst out laughing again.

Beatrice and Larson exchanged a look, both smiling in that warm, parental way. Laurinda really seemed different these days, brighter and more at ease.

Inside, laughter bubbled over. Outside, jealousy was starting to boil. Some people listened at the door, totally baffled about what made Laurinda so magnetic. Why did the older folks adore her so much? It drove them crazy.

Odette hesitated at the door, not daring to walk in and risk irritating Adolphus’s grandparents. She nudged Nelly, whispering, “Nelly, go find out what gift Laurinda brought for Felix. We can’t just let her shine and then try to impress Dad with something lousy, can we?”

Nelly’s eyes lit up right away. She thought Odette had a point. Seriously, what could an orphan cast out by a wealthy family really give? Probably nothing impressive. Maybe she was even a fake.

Give me a minute. I’m going to find someone who will make Laurinda lose all her dignity.

She rushed off before Odette could even react, and Odette hurried after her.

A little later, Nelly came back into Tanya’s courtyard, leading an older man wearing glasses and a traditional silk suit. As they walked, she spoke up, “Jarred, thank you so much for coming to my father’s birthday. He’ll be thrilled to see you. Ever since he’s been at home, he’s gotten really into antiques and art. You’re an expert, so you two can finally talk shop.”

Jarred hadn’t expected to get this kind of chance with Adolphus’s grandparents. His smile widened with excitement, and he walked in like he’d been looking forward to this moment forever.

When they reached Tanya’s drawing room, Nelly didn’t bother checking who was inside, just opened the door and stepped in with Jarred.

The room fell silent as everyone looked over.

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