?Chapter 249:


    Before today, the’s high society had only been aware of the Harper family reuniting with their long-lost daughter, but no one had ever truly recognized Elena’s importance. Following Gerald’s endorsement today, no one would underestimate her again. Elena had now firmly secured her status among the’s distinguished circle. Anyone with a sensible mind wouldn’t mess with her.


    Elena gave a slight nod. “Alright, I’ll definitelye visit, Mr. Spencer.”


    Gerald offered a warm smile. “Just call me Gerald.”


    “Alright, Gerald,” Elena replied.


    Gerald’s satisfaction was almost palpable.


    The higher one’s position, the less they were moved by fear or ttery. Throughout his life, Gerald had been defined by his reserved and stern demeanor. Those around him either felt a deep sense of intimidation or went out of their way to win his favor. Elena, however, was different—she was calm,posed, and showed genuine confidence.


    The proper respect expected from the younger generation toward the elders was evident in Elena. Her confidence,bined with her politeness, made her very likable.


    Gerald nced at Wesley and then at Elena. Suddenly, he said, “Elena, you don’t have a boyfriend yet, do you? And if I’m not mistaken, Malcolm isn’t married either.”


    Malcolm tensed up. He could feel the stare from behind growing sharper, its intensity pressing down on him even more. He let out a bitter chuckle inwardly. Was Gerald trying to get him into trouble? He knew well that entertaining any thoughts about the woman Wesley was interested in would be a mistake he couldn’t afford to make.


    Swiftly, Malcolm diverted the conversation. “Mr. Spencer, you’ve seen the gifts from everyone else, but my gift is still waiting. I recently acquired an extraordinary hundred-foot red coral, and I’ve brought it especially for you.”


    Noticing how smoothly Malcolm steered the conversation in a different direction, Gerald chose to go along with it.


    Elena made her way back to her seat. She couldn’t shake the feeling that someone was watching her. Turning around, she met Wesley’s eyes. A subtle shift passed through his gaze, but she chose not to probe about it, maintaining herposure as she gracefully turned her gaze elsewhere.


    Elena failed to notice that Wesley’s expression grew noticeably colder.


    Stay tuned for updates at g?lnσν???s?c?m


    Half an hourter, the presentation of gifts had wrapped up.


    As the hotel staff began distributing meals to the tables, a gentle voice reached Elena’s ears. “Elena, may I join you here? I’ve been in high heels all evening, and my feet are just too sore to walk any longer.”


    Turning, Elena saw Elyse standing there, looking rather unhappy. Elyse had carefully selected a pair of heels that added 3.93 inches to her height, perfectly enhancing the elegance of her extravagant attire. Elyse’s feet were truly aching, yet her main goal was to secure a seat next to Wesley.


    Elena scoffed at Elyse’s audacity. Only moments ago, Elyse had been tarnishing her reputation, and now she had the nerve to expect Elena to surrender her seat.


    Did Elyse really believe that by appearing pitiable, she could manipte others at her whim?


    Resolutely, Elena remained seated, her posture unyielding—a clear signal that she would not be coerced into giving up her ce. Elyse’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears, painting a picture of profound injustice.


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