From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 541

Cathleen wrapped her arm around Earl’s, her smile dazzling.

She knew full well what kind of person Nelly was, but she couldn’t stand the thought of Earl having to deal with that disaster alone. She wanted to be there for him, to lend a helping hand.

As for Laurinda, Cathleen genuinely appreciated her, and she would treat Laurinda with respect—never letting her feel slighted or humiliated.

The group stepped into the banquet’s grand hall, and before they were fully through the doorway, they heard Nelly already boasting to a crowd about Cathleen’s impressive family connections.

Carla scanned the room for the Main family elders, but their faces were nowhere to be seen. She edged close to Len and asked curiously, “Are the Main folks all in the private lounge?”

Len shook his head. “No idea. It’s still early. Maybe they haven’t arrived yet.” He glanced toward Nelly, and understanding flickered in his eyes—suddenly, he understood the look his mother had given him earlier that evening. For the first time, he realized his parents had made the right call in skipping the event.

Adolphus, picking up on Laurinda’s sour mood, leaned in to murmur, “Not a fan of this place? Want to step outside for some air?”

Laurinda shook her head gently. “No, let’s go say hello first. Too many people are watching.” She released his hand and gave his arm a slight nudge toward the throng—her way of urging him forward.

But that was precisely what made Adolphus uncomfortable. Years of estrangement from Nelly had left him unsure how to break the ice.

Seraphina, who’d been observing quietly by their side, caught on to the exchange. She reached out, tugged lightly at Adolphus’s sleeve, and whispered, “Just follow my lead.”

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