How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

Chapter 471

Patricia Aldridge's question came off as casual, but the confidence in her tone was unmistakable-brash, effortless, the kind that could only be built on generations of family legacy and a mountain of wealth.

Sylvie Fielding hesitated, just for a second.

That was all the opening Patricia needed. She narrowed her eyes. "Oh, I just got back to the country, and I've already heard a bit of gossip. Word is you tried to force an engagement recently?"

Sylvie froze, her expression darkening for a fleeting moment.

Why did Patricia have to be so blunt?

Even Jarrod Silverstein glanced over, his brow creasing in mild disapproval.

Patricia tilted her head, smiling. "If you want to negotiate, give me a price I'll actually consider. Think it over, Ms. Fielding."

With that, she turned on her heel and strolled toward Elodie Thorne, who stood nearby.

By the time Elodie realized Patricia was headed her way, Patricia was already in front of her. Patricia offered her hand with a poised smile. “Mrs. Silverstein... Oh wait, Ms. Thorne, isn't it? Nice to meet you. I'm Patricia, Watts Aldridge's sister."

Patricia made no effort to hide her intentions or her opinions.

Sylvie, of course, saw all of this unfold in plain view.

Patricia's attitude toward Elodie was a world apart from the way she'd just spoken to Sylvie.

words-said in front of everyone had been a public slap in the

under his breath at the scene. This Miss Aldridge was not someone to cross;

wasn't concerned with saving

at Sylvie. "It's not over. There's still room to negotiate.

her feelings a tangled

only being nice to Elodie out of pity-pity for someone not truly loved.

Meanwhile

was Elodie's first

hand.

instantly at ease, was friendly and straightforward. "I've just returned, but I've already heard a

precedes you. I'm genuinely

Mind if we

contact info?"

direct, Elodie saw no reason

brow, giving her a knowing look. "Thank you. My brother's mentioned you

fell silent, a little caught off

wink. "I like you. hope we get to hang out sometime. And I hope you enjoy the exhibit today-every piece here is mine. If

and disappeared into the crowd, as breezy

siblings shared more

expected to make such