The Jilted Heiress' Return to the High Life - Chapter 229

Chapter 229:

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Bruce observed her retreating form as she glided into the inner sanctum, his brow furrowing in confusion.

This newfound intimacy between Corrine and the Seymour family perplexed him. How had she secured such privileged access to the inner banquet area? While the Seymour family’s wedding celebrations welcomed Lyhaton’s elite en masse, a strategically placed screen delineated clear social boundaries. The outer chamber served for general socializing, while the inner sanctum hosted the exclusive banquet.

Those permitted beyond that threshold undeniably belonged to society’s uppermost echelon.

The attendant who had witnessed the confrontation addressed Corrine with measured politeness.

“Miss Holland, shall we arrange for Mr. Ashton’s departure?”

The diplomatic phrasing barely masked the implicit threat of forceful removal. Corrine regarded the attendant with careful consideration, her crimson lips curling into a faint smile.

Forming a smile both courteous and distant, Corrine replied, “Thank you.” Upon hearing her response, Karina released a subtle sigh of relief.

“What prompts that sigh?” Corrine inquired, genuine puzzlement coloring her tone.

“I feared your resolve might waver,” Karina admitted.

A soft laugh escaped Corrine’s lips.

“He hardly merits such consideration.”

As they traversed the inner dining area, Jules approached, his gaze sweeping critically over Corrine’s attire.

“What inspired this understated choice of dress?” While other women had adorned themselves in ostentatious finery, competing for attention, Corrine had opted for an elegant white suit that spoke of refined restraint.

Corrine arched an eyebrow in response.

“Does my choice not meet with approval?”

She maintained that another’s wedding celebration demanded tasteful discretion rather than attempting to eclipse the bride’s moment.

𝓒𝓸𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓷𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓵𝓪𝓽𝓮𝓼 𝓽𝓸 g𝓪𝗅𝗇𝓸ν𝓮𝗅𝓈﹐ⅽ𝗼𝗺

“Grandfather requests your presence,” Jules announced, indicating the direction with a slight tilt of his head.

Corrine transferred her glass to Jules’ care before proceeding with graceful poise toward Carl’s location.

Carl beckoned her forward with evident warmth.

“Corrine, come introduce yourself to Mr. Seymour.”

“Good evening, Mr. Seymour.” Corrine offered the greeting with appropriate deference.

Quentin’s response came wrapped in genuine warmth, his appraising gaze taking in her appearance.

“Corrine, you grow more captivating by the day. I wonder what fortunate young man will eventually win your affections.”

Such speculation about her romantic future left Corrine, still navigating her own path, with little recourse but to respond with a diplomatic smile.

Carl leaned forward, his protective nature evident in every word.

“She’s my only granddaughter, and I must choose carefully. Her future isn’t something to be decided lightly.”

“Indeed,” Quentin acknowledged, stroking his chin thoughtfully.

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