She Was the Treasure All Along novel Chapter 529

A flicker of disappointment crossed Sybil's eyes, but she maintained her poised demeanor. "That's quite alright. There will be plenty of opportunities to become friends in the future."

Thane picked up his silverware, grinning cheerfully. "Let's eat!"

During dinner, Sylvie's mother, Anthea, initiated a conversation with Sybil. "Your designs are truly remarkable, Sybil. Securing the opening spot has been a tremendous help to our family as well. Would you mind sharing your creative process with us?"

Sybil had already memorized her fabricated backstory, delivering exactly what the Langleys wanted to hear. "I was largely influenced by my mother's career, so I've always had an appreciation for design and sketching, though I wouldn't call myself an expert. The inspiration actually struck while I was on vacation. The spring scenery was simply breathtaking. I wanted to capture that perfect, fleeting beauty on fabric. I honestly never expected the judges to rate it so highly."

"Have you considered expanding it into a full collection?" Anthea asked. "Looking at your blueprint, it feels perfect for an exclusive seasonal line. We could easily adapt our jewelry pieces to match the changing seasons. It would be a phenomenal, mutually beneficial partnership."

Without missing a beat, Sybil replied softly, "This piece was born out of a sudden burst of inspiration. While I do have ideas for other seasons, there just wasn't enough time before the Nexus Design deadline to execute a full collection."

Anthea nodded understandingly, offering a warm, maternal smile. "I never realized the extended branches of the Seabrook family possessed such talent. A gentle, refined girl like you would be a perfect match for Linden. You two must formally meet when the time is right."

Sybil's heart leaped, though she replied with practiced modesty. "I would be honored."

Beside her, Thane's mood instantly soured, his jealousy plastered across his face. Sylvie had to intervene. "Your soup is getting cold, Thane."

"I suddenly lost my appetite," Thane muttered.

Sylvie: "..."

After dinner, as Sybil prepared to leave, Thane walked her out, practically overflowing with jealousy. "What's the matter? Disappointed you didn't get to meet Linden? I guarantee he's not half as good-looking or athletic as I am."

"What are you talking about?" Sybil scolded lightly. "I was just curious. The man has never shown his face in high society. It's only natural to wonder."

"There's nothing to wonder about. Just assume there's something wrong with him and he's not good enough for you."

A few passing staff members frowned, shooting Thane disapproving looks.

"Stop talking nonsense!" Sybil hissed, quickly covering his mouth with her hand. "That's incredibly rude."

Catching the scent of her perfume, Thane immediately turned bright red.

"If worst comes to worst, I will personally request Loyce Lonsdale's help," Anthea interrupted smoothly. "She may have a terrible reputation, but her medical expertise is undeniable. If Bloomberry embarrasses itself on the runway, you can tell Alicia to back off and ensure Loyce doesn't suffer any more bad press. We can use that as leverage."

Sylvie clenched her jaw, unable to hold back any longer. "Why can't this family have a female heir? I am vastly more capable than Linden! Is Mom really going to be this unfair? Am I supposed to just accept this archaic nonsense for the rest of my life?!"

Faced with her daughter's fury, Anthea remained ice-cold. "Your eventual role is to secure a strategic marriage alliance. Your duty is not to run this empire, but to help Linden expand it."

"I am a thousand times better at business than he is!" Sylvie whispered fiercely. "I negotiated this Élégance partnership! I'm the one finally pushing this family into the international market we've been locked out of for years! How is that not enough to prove my worth?"

Before Anthea could reply, her husband, Alaric, descended the stairs, his voice cutting through the tension. "Ambition is a good thing, but I only care about results. If what you claim is true, Sylvie—if this Élégance partnership successfully breaks us into the international sphere—I will genuinely consider you for the position of heir."

Anthea whipped her head around in shock. "What?"

Alaric raised a hand to silence his wife, his dark eyes fixed on his daughter. "The heir to this family cannot afford a single misstep when making critical executive decisions. Consider this your final test."

Sylvie clenched her fists. "Linden will always be my brother. I will ensure he is well taken care of for the rest of his life, and I will do everything in my power to cure his illness."