Before long, the car smoothly rolled into Montgomery Manor.
The grand wrought-iron gates swung open to reveal an evergreen oasis within the estate, defying the chill of winter with its lush greenery. A small bridge arched over a gently flowing stream, evoking a sense of timeless elegance.
The vehicle drove straight through the courtyard, pulling up to the main house where warmth spilled out of the entrance.
As soon as the car stopped, Conrad Montgomery, the family patriarch, approached with a sense of urgency. He first drew Felicity close, touching her face to ensure it was warm before he relaxed. His gaze then shifted to Mila as she stepped out of the car, his demeanor turning cold and formal.
Among the Montgomery family, only her mother-in-law truly liked Mila.
Both Lysander, her husband, and his father, Conrad, harbored a distinct dislike for her, although Conrad’s was tempered by his wife’s fondness for Mila.
Mila greeted him quietly, Hello, Dad.
Conrad responded with a curt nod before taking Felicity’s hand and leading her inside. Mila followed them silently.
Lysander called to say he won’t be coming tonight, so there’s no need to wait for them, Conrad announced.
Felicity’s expression soured at this news. She pulled away from her husband, walked over to Mila, and grasped her hands with a mix of concern and anger.
Mila, don’t be upset. Tomorrow, when Lysander gets back, I’ll give him a piece of my mind. How can he be such an irresponsible husband, gallivanting with the kids and neglecting his family like this?
Mom, it’s fine. I’ll join you for dinner, Mila reassured her with a calm that surprised even herself. She wasn’t angry anymore, nor was she hurt by Lysander’s absence—this wasn’t the first time he’d left her behind.
Besides, she had long since stopped expecting anything from Lysander.
With Felicity appeased, Mila sat down to dinner with her parents-in-law.
The dinner spread was plentiful, yet the table felt empty with just the three of them. Both Lysander and their son Adrian were absent, as was Lysander’s brother, Eugene Montgomery.
Though she was eager to return to her work, she was taken aback when Felicity led her to a grand walk-in closet on the second floor.
In the center of the room stood a resplendent purple gown, shimmering with opulence. The gown featured a fitted black bodice, while the skirt flared out from the waist in waves of pearlescent purple silk, adorned with tiny gemstones that sparkled under the light.
Mila was both captivated and curious, Is this for…?
Felicity’s eyes crinkled with her smile, I had it custom-made for you by a designer. Do you like it?
Mila felt a warmth bloom in her chest, yet she was puzzled. Is there a special occasion coming up?
She hadn’t heard anything from Lysander.
The eldest of the Lockwood family has returned, and I’ve been friends with his mother for years. They’ve sent invitations to us and to Lysander. I’m not feeling well enough to attend, but you should definitely go with Lysander. I secretly had this dress made for you based on the measurements of one you wore before. I wanted it to be a surprise.