Even though Adolphus couldn’t make it, Laurinda made sure he looked good in front of everyone.
People have their own joys and sorrows. When Seraphina and Abigail heard about Laurinda’s incredible gift, their faces lit up. It was generous to the point of being shocking, but they genuinely felt happy for her.
Abigail slung her arm around Seraphina’s shoulder and grinned, “Mom’s always been sharp. She saw right away that Laurinda wasn’t just any normal girl. It’s only right she trusts her to take over the Lane family.”
Seraphina glanced sideways at Abigail, surprised at how calm she seemed. “You’re not upset? I heard Yolande fought with Kenneth for days when Mom gave Laurinda that heirloom bracelet.”
Abigail stood tall, her smile soft. “Why would I be mad? Honestly, I’m relieved.”
“Being the head of the family isn’t just a fancy title. It’s a lot of responsibility. I actually like the way things are now. Running my business keeps me busy enough. I don’t have the time or energy to deal with all the Lane family stuff.”
“And really, whoever becomes the next matriarch doesn’t change my place. I’m still Mom’s oldest daughter-in-law. It’s not like they’re going to throw me out. Laurinda is totally right for this. With her and Adolphus, the Lane family will only get stronger.”
Seraphina actually agreed. It didn’t matter who was in charge. She was still Seraphina, and that would never change. Being in control of the Lane family wasn’t something she wanted anyway.
“Okay, we should get the guest of honor. The party’s about to start.”
Once everything was ready, Abigail and Seraphina went to fetch Felix and the rest. Soon enough, the birthday celebration got into full swing.
Laurinda stuck close to Tanya throughout the night, while Tanya and Felix introduced her to all the biggest names in Cabinda.
Anyone could tell how much Adolphus's grandparents cared for Laurinda. Len’s and Kenneth’s wives looked like they could burst from jealousy.
Odette slid over to Yolande, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “I get Abigail not wanting the matriarch title since she’s busy with her own things, but how could Mom just skip over you and put that nobody in line for the role? She’s not even married into the family yet.”
“Look, I know Mom looks down on me and Patten, but you’re Kenneth’s wife. Your background and experience are both way better than that little upstart. I just don’t think it’s fair. She’s bending over backwards to help Laurinda out.”
As Odette tried to stir things up, Varelie quietly clenched her hands under the table, but kept her face calm. She wasn’t about to show Odette how she really felt, or give her the satisfaction of seeing her rattled.
“Mom has her reasons for choosing who leads the Lane family. That’s not up to us to judge. And let’s be honest, Odette, whoever gets the title, it would never be you, so maybe don’t worry about it so much.”
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