Rupert nced up casually, his demeanor nonchnt. Yet, his gaze held an unmistakable strength and possessiveness that he made no effort to hide.


    captivating all who saw it.


    Sylvia was dressed in a striking red dress, cinched at the waist with a brown belt. Her smooth, porcin-like skin and alluring figure drew every eye in the room. A delicate tinum ne adorned her slender neck, its subtle glint seeming to emanate from within,


    Across the room, Mrs. Simpson- Miriam- felt Rupert''s gaze lingering on Sylvia. She set her cup down with a deliberate clink, drawing everyone''s attention. Adjusting her silk houndstooth shawl, she turned to Naomi with a graceful smile, though her narrow eyes sparkled with mockery.


    "Naomi, you''ve really outdone yourself with such a grand wee. I hope we didn''t interrupt your restst night?"


    At the mention ofst night, Naomi flinched, almost losing herposure. Sylvia, noticing, subtly tugged her arm to steady her. With a broad smile facing Miriam''s malicious gaze, she said, "Given how splendidly Mrs. Simpson and Ms. Simpson are dressed, we Garcias naturally had to rise to the asion. After all, hospitality is something we take very seriously. Wouldn''t you agree, esteemed elders?"


    Her words clearly positioned the Garcias as the hosts, subtly reminding Miriam of her ce. The elders, wise as they were, caught the underlying message immediately. Even if they had reservations about Naomi, she was a Garcia, and it wasn''t Miriam''s ce to criticize. An older, well-established aunt swirled her ss of wine, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "This vintage tastes a bit... off, don''t you think?"


    Another chimed in. "Oh, it''s not from our cer. It''s some bottle sent over by another vineyard for us to try. Not exactly up to par for properpany."


    "Well, someone clearly didn''t let it breathe properly. Honestly, theck of standards these days! Guests are here, and we''re serving this? Our family doesn''t settle for second-rate." "Indeed."


    A maid was promptly called to fetch a better bottle. Off to the side, Miriam and Bridget''s faces turned ashen, and they shot a discreet re at Sylvia.


    Sylvia, feigning ignorance, helped Naomi to her seat.


    Before they could settle, the butler announced Tristan Garcia''s arrival. Everyone rose to greet him.


    Tristan gestured for calm. "Please, sit. Today is about enjoying each other''spany. No need for formalities."


    Miriam quickly presented a rectangr box. Inside was a beautifully crafted sword.


    "Sir, you''ve been looking so robust; your swordsmanship must be flourishing Bridget insisted on


    master for you," she ttered.. "She was somewhat shy, fearing it might seem presumptuous."


    "Mother, please," Bridget rose, speaking softly, "Sir, I hope you won''t mind my boldness. In truth, Rupert often speaks of your health, which inspired this gift."


    Their performance was impable, praising Tristan''s vigor and Rupert''s filial piety, while also highlighting their own thoughtfulness.


    Tristan, clearly pleased, ran a hand over the sword and nodded approvingly. "Bridget, you are considerate."


    For Tristan to address Bridget so directly was a significant gesture of approval. Bridget and Miriam visibly brightened, their stature rising. Now, they saw an opportunity to vent their earlier frustrations.


    Exchanging nces, their smiles tinged with triumph, Miriam subtly probed, "Mr. Edwin, Mrs. Naomi, are you feeling better? I heard..."