Chapter 9
“Too bad Caleb is already taken, otherwise, such good fortune would have surely gone to someone else,” she added, her tone dripping with meaning
The guests didn’t need any further explanation–they all knew exactly what she was implying
Caleb was Adeline and Marquis of Bromwell’s son. He and Eliza had been childhood sweethearts, promised to each other years ago
So, when Adeline was clearly talking about Eliza. The guests began to murmur amongst themselves,
“Well, I never thought Eliza had such a venomous side”
Jealous o
of her own sister? Talk about small–minded”
Tve heard she’s been pretty harsh at home, always bullying Lady Sophie, and didn’t she even push her into the water once!”
“She’s just a kid, and already so crucif
“Now we see her true colors. I bet the people from the Marquis’s estate are regretting that engagement”
Didn’t you hear what Adeline just said? They probably can’t stand d Eliza now and are wishing they could break off the engagement.”
Sophie blushed, locking down, and said softly. “Auntic, please don’t say that I’ve always thought of Caleb as an older brother.
“Even though Eliza can be a little headstrong, she’s always liked him, and I’m sure she’ll change for him. They’ll be happy together”
Her words were kind and full of understanding.
Adeline couldn’t help but feel a stab of bittemess as Sophie spoke. “Eliza, did you hear that? Your sister is so sweet and considerate. Maybe you should learn from her.”
It was clear Adeline was publicly scolding her, but Eliza only found it laughable.
“Enough Don’t waste any more time, Gabriel interjected, aware of his sister’s subtle criticism but not wanting her to overstep.
There were too many guests, and the family’s reputation couldn’t afford any more dramu.
Adeline, recognizing when to stop, let the matter go. But her small actions throughout the ceremony spoke louder than words.
According to tradition, Elizashould have been crowned first, followed by Sophie.
However, since Adeline wasn’t food of Eliza, she decided to crown Sophie first
As she recited the blessings, Adeline’s face was filled with affection, and her words were warm. It almost felt like Sophie was her own daughter–or even her daughter–in–law,
But when it came to Eliza, Adeline’s attitude was cold and dismissive. The blessings were minimal–just a quick, “May you live in peace and joy”
J
The guests, unsurprised by this treatment, whispered to each other. After all, who would want to bless someone with a heart so cruel? they thought.
“The crowning ceremony is complete. The crowned ones will now return to their rooms to don their gowns–The officiant began, but Gabriel roldly interrupted, “No gowns. Skip it and move on to the next part.”
The officiant paused for a moment but quickly complied, skipping the gown–changing and moving straight to the next segment–the flower blessings
Many guests had come to show support, and all the prominent families from Hasen City were in attendance.
Even those who couldn’t come in person had sent their families to present flowers as blessings to the two girls.
As expected, many guests were holding flowers, but no one was eager to stand up first. Instead, they started whispering to each other.
“Why haven’t they changed their gowns!”
“Didn’t you hear what the Duke said? No gowns, so they can’t change.”
“No gowns? I heard it was Lady Eliza who ruined Lady Sophie’s gown the day before.”
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Chapter 9
“Of course Eliza would do something like that. To ruin her sister’s gown on such an important occasion–how low can you go?”
“So why doesn’t she have a gown!”
“It’s obvious, right? She must’ve been punished by the Duke.”
“That’s just beyond. Someone like her doesn’t deserve any blessings!”
“We should give the flowers to Sophie. She’s the one who truly deserves them”
“Exactly!”
In a wave of anger, the guests all placed their flowers at Sophie’s feet, ignoring Eliza completely. The message was clear: no blessing for her
AD