?Chapter 1552:


    Brenna grinned and said to Sandra, “Remember that we promised to throw you a wee banquet? We decided to hold the banquet on Christmas Day.”


    Sandra stood frozen, caughtpletely off guard. She had always known the Harper family would never go out of their way to wee her—they considered her a blemish on their perfect image. The fact that she hadn’t been pushed out was already a miracle. She had never let herself hope for anything different. Her n was always to earn her own ce among the elite, without anyone’s help.


    Now, this unexpected kindness from the Harper family left her stunned and a little unsure how to feel.


    Was she moved? Overjoyed? Simply overwhelmed?


    She honestly didn’t know.


    “Thank you, everyone,” Sandra said after a while, her gratitude sincere as she bowed.


    At that moment, Giselle walked in, fresh from learning that Brenna was back. She had intended to ask about Brenna’s mother-inw—whether she had treated Brenna better this time.


    Instead, she found herself watching Sandra’s bow, a faint flicker of disdain passing across her face before she masked it with polite indifference. Approaching with her usual coolposure, she said, “Sandra, you’re part of the family now. If you want anything special at the wee party, just let Brenna or Rosanna know. They’re handling all the arrangements.”


    “Thank you, Giselle.” For a moment, Sandra saw her in a different light. Maybe Giselle genuinely wanted to help her, but pride kept her distant.


    Realizing Giselle would never bridge that gap herself, Sandra chose to meet her halfway. “Really, I can’t thank you enough,” she continued.


    Knowing she had little to offer—no status, no wealth—Sandra could only show her appreciation with another respectful bow.


    Giselle regarded Sandra’s grateful bow with a detached air. If only Sandra knew that the Harper family had agreed to this wee party out of sheer obligation, her gratitude might disappear on the spot.


    But Sandra would never find out about that.


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    “It’s nothing. Just do your part at the banquet,” Giselle said, her voice cool. “Let Rosanna and Brenna show you the ropes with the guests. Make sure you don’t embarrass yourself.”


    “Absolutely, I understand,” Sandra responded, her joy unmistakable, a wide smile lighting up her face.


    It felt almost unreal—the Harper family would finally acknowledge her in public.


    She would gain entry to Shire’s most elite circles soon. Surely, more than a few eligible bachelors would take notice of her.


    Just imagining the possibilities sent a rush of excitement through her.


    Before leaving, Giselle shot Brenna a meaningful look and headed up the stairs.


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