?Chapter 719:


    “Rx,” he said, voice low and steady, leaning in slightly.


    His arm hovered protectively at her back, a subtle shield. “Stick with me when we go in.”


    She met his eyes briefly and gave a small nod of thanks.


    Halfway through, the banquet was in full swing. Austin and Susie Carter, surrounded by well-wishers, made their way to the center. Conversation faded without anyone needing to ask.


    The hall quieted down, honoring the Carters with due respect.


    “Thank you all for being here tonight.” Austin’s deep voice carried easily across the hall. “And a special thanks to the person who saved my son’s life—Ms. Sylvia Gilbert!”


    Ste felt every gazend on her. She forced herself to hold her head high, even as awkwardness prickled under her skin.


    “Please, everyone, enjoy yourselves—that’s why we’re here,” Austin added, then stepped back into the crowd.


    From her quiet corner, Ste saw Lance reappear. “Ms. Gilbert, my grandfather would like to see you in the study upstairs,” he said.


    The estate’s second floor was unfamiliar to her.


    The mention of his grandfather sent a flicker of unease through her. The Carters had been abroad until recently—so why were they all gathered in Briset tonight?


    Still, she followed Lance toward the stairs.


    Across the room, Nina stood in the shadows, her fingers tight around a wine ss.


    Her gaze locked on Ste’s back as she ascended, dark with malice.


    She caught a passing servant, leaning close to whisper something quickly.


    The servant’s eyes widened, but Nina’s sharp look left no room for refusal.


    Momentster, the servant hurried upstairs and slipped past Lance and Ste without stopping, heading straight for the study.


    “Mr. Carter,” she blurted after knocking, “there’s trouble. Miss Carter cut her hand downstairs!”


    Karson looked up from his desk, brows drawn. “Is it bad? How did it happen?”


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    The servant hesitated. “Miss Carter says it hurts and asks if you coulde take a look.”


    It was exactly what Nina had told her to say.


    Karson’s voice was firm. “If she’s hurt, call the family doctor to dress it. Why call me? I’m busy. Go.”


    The servant fidgeted. “But—”


    One look from him cut her short. She swallowed, nodded, and turned back down the hall.


    At the door, she nearly collided with Lance and Ste.


    Ste noticed her hurried steps. “Mr. Carter, is something wrong?”


    Lance shook his head. “Don’t think so. My grandpa’s inside—let’s go.”


    He knocked, and a deep,manding voice came from within. “Come in.”


    Lance pushed the door open and stepped inside, Ste following.


    “Grandpa,” he said warmly, “this is my savior—Sylvia Gilbert. The one I told you about before I came home.”


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