?Chapter 248:


    Malcolm then turned his attention to the crux of the matter, his voice steady but tinged with a hint of exasperation. “Miss Harper is the true creator of Luna’s Whisper. This scented candle, which weunched together, is her invention—so really, there’s no need for either of you to gift it. She owns the form.”


    Elena’s share of the profits far exceeded Malcolm’s, a fact that only added weight to his words.


    Caught off guard, Elyse couldn’t contain her astonishment, blurting out, “That’s impossible!” Her voice cracked slightly under the strain of disbelief. How could Elena be the creator of Luna’s Whisper? In her shock, Elyse’s carefully constructed facade crumbled, leaving her emotions bare for all to see.


    Malcolm caught the change in Elyse’s expression and looked at her with a trace of amusement. “You don’t seem very pleased. Is it so disappointing to learn that Elena wasn’t deceiving us?”


    Before, no one had paid much attention to Elyse. But now, prompted by Malcolm’s observations, all eyes suddenly turned to her, scrutinizing every shift in her demeanor.


    Realization dawned on Elyse toote. Her reaction had already betrayed her.


    The room bore witness to her shock and dismay, which painted a clear picture of her feelings. Reflecting on her earlier words, it was apparent she had indeed been attempting to smear Elena’s reputation. What once might have been perceived as sensible skepticism now seemed like ungratefulness. The Harper family had raised Elyse as one of their own, yet she begrudged their daughter’s sess. This revtion made her seem incredibly petty—a trait no one would wish in a rtive.


    Elyse waved her hands frantically, trying to form an exnation, but words failed her.


    Just as the room seemed to close in around Elyse, Karen intervened, her voice steady but filled with doubt. “How can we be sure whether you’re telling the truth?”


    Malcolm’s response came with a dismissive chuckle. “Why would I lie, Miss Spencer? Do I have so much money that I just throw it around?”


    Malcolm’s sharp remarks struck a nerve, leaving Karen flustered and at aplete loss for words.


    Those who had previously questioned Elena now regarded her with respect.


    “Who would have imagined that Miss Harper, at such a young age, could achieve so much? Not only is she skilled in medicine, she’s also a master of perfumery. Truly, like father, like daughter!”


    g α? ησ ν?? ?s takes you away


    With Malcolm’s exnations, doubts about Elena dissolved. Indeed, she had every right to adjust her own form as she pleased. Any annoyance Gerald might have felt earlier had disappeared. He looked up, his gaze intently on Elena.


    Even at the age of eighty, Gerald’s sharp eyes sparkled with energy, and hismanding presence remained as strong as ever. His piercing gaze had a way of making most people uneasy, enough to leave them shifting nervously or even breaking into a sweat.


    Yet, Elena stood upright and at ease, showing neither fear nor difort.


    Her poised and assured manner gained Gerald’s appreciation. He smiled slowly and said, “The Harper family has raised a remarkable daughter. Elena, I really appreciate your gift. You should visit the Spencer family sometimes.”


    the’s high society was quietly impressed. Gerald’s statements held undeniable influence, shaping the thoughts of those who listened. Many aspired just for an opportunity to meet him, though such chances were rare. And here was this young woman, receiving an invitation from him—what an honor!


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