?Chapter 244:


    Elyse had neglected to extend such a gesture to the Harper family. Vince, an avid collector of paintings, had never received a gift like that from her.


    Unbeknownst to Elyse, her oversight had deeply wounded both Vince and Samira.


    At the main table, the dignitaries engaged in lively conversation, leaving Elyse feeling noticeably out of ce. She nced toward Wesley for support. Wesley, casually reclining in his chair, inadvertently brushed against the person behind him—Elena. Elyse was momentarily speechless.


    At the second table, Alexander maintained a stoic expression, concealing his emotions. Jolie noticed Elyse standing awkwardly and sighed. On this day, before the elders had presented their gifts, Elyse—among the younger attendees—had impulsively stepped forward ahead of everyone else, ignoring established customs. It seemed as if all the principles she had learned since childhood had slipped from her mind.


    Elena adjusted her posture, keeping a respectful distance to avoid intruding on Wesley’s space behind her. A faint crease appeared between her brows as she considered the unexpectedly cramped hall at the Peak Hotel. The seating arrangement was too tight. She had shifted her chair twice but still found herself brushing against Wesley. Though seated at different tables, they were surprisingly close.


    As an expert in handling medicines, Elena was sensitive to scents. Wesley’s scent—a crisp, refreshing blend of cedar—surrounded her, carrying an air of cold detachment and undeniable authority. Once the dignitaries at the main table finished presenting their gifts, it was time for those at the second table to follow. Because Wesley had personally invited Elena, she feltpelled to prepare a gift for Gerald.


    Following Alexander’s presentation, Elena stood and approached Gerald, her voice gentle and respectful. “Mr. Spencer, I wish you many more years filled with love and joy.” Her gift was modest—a small box containing a scented candle. Elyse’s face lit up when she noticed Elena’s gift. Atst, there was a present less expensive than her own!


    Elyse couldn’t contain her disdain. Elena had chosen such a humble birthday present for Gerald. How stingy.


    Elyse blurted out, “Elena, it’s Mr. Spencer’s eightieth birthday. Even if funds are tight, this isn’t an appropriate gift.” The scented candle Elena offered was handcrafted, bearing nomercialbels.


    Elyse mistakenly assumed it was a cheaply bought item. She wasn’t alone in that assumption. Karen felt the same way.


    Karen sneered, “What is this? Did you make it yourself? It doesn’t evene in a proper package.”


    Elena nodded. “Yes, I did make this scented candle myself.”


    “Oh!” Elyse feigned shock. “How could you possibly give Mr. Spencer something homemade? Thates across aspletely disrespectful.”


    Elyse then turned to Gerald. “Mr. Spencer, I apologize on behalf of Elena. Please, don’t be offended.”


    Before Elyse could continue, Gerald interjected, “Let me see it.” Elena handed it to him. Bringing it close to his nose, Gerald unexpectedly instructed, “Please, put this in my car.”


    Elyse and Karen were taken aback by his request.


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