Shrouded Affections Winning Back My CEO Wife

Chapter 267

Chapter 267:

Ruby and Bailee arrived early, but Ruby insisted on waiting for Eileen, who was running late. Consequently, they found themselves waiting in the café for several minutes until Eileen arrived. Eileen and Bailee supported Ruby as they entered the hotel. A waiter escorted them to the room reserved by Stella. The room was expansive, capable of hosting dozens of guests. An opulent crystal chandelier hung overhead, casting shimmering reflections on the walls.

It was Ruby’s first time in such an extravagant setting, and she felt a bit uneasy. Stella sat beside Ruby while Bryan and Eileen took charge of ordering food. From the moment she entered the room, Stella had been immersed in continuous conversation. Jarred, carrying a bag filled with hotel materials and wedding planning leaflets, was by her side, fulfilling Stella’s requests. Last time they had only discussed the matter; this time, they would make a decision.

After about ten minutes, the waiter began serving the dishes. Soon, the table was adorned with an array of delectable dishes. The scent of the food wafted through the air, prompting Stella to finally stop talking about her plans. “Let’s eat first. Once we’ve finished, we can discuss the important matter,” she suggested.

Curious, Eileen asked, “What’s the important matter?” She had listened as they discussed wedding dresses, photography, and venue options, but she didn’t know what was more important to discuss.

“Silly girl, don’t you require a dowry for your marriage?” Stella said with a smile. “You are destined to be part of our Dawson family. It’s essential that you marry into our family with honor and dignity.”

“Dowry is simply a local tradition. We could adhere to Onaland’s customs,” Eileen said, knowing that Stella and Bryan were doing this for her own good.

“That can’t happen!” A resolute voice cut in.

Everyone turned in surprise as Judie, with Denise at her side, entered the room.

“My daughter must take the dowry,” Denise declared firmly, her words resonating in the room.

Eileen felt her heart sink. She looked at the women who had just entered. Her last memory of Denise was of Denise leaving with Roderick in her arms. At that time, Eileen had cried out, “Mom, don’t leave me!” However, Denise hadn’t looked back.

Now, Denise showed up, her intentions evident. Denise hadn’t glanced at Eileen from the moment she entered the room, her attention fixed on the opulent surroundings and the feast laid out on the table. Observing Eileen’s expression, Stella inferred the identity and guessed at the strained relationship between Denise and Eileen.

Therefore, Stella avoided the core issue and stated, “Regardless of parentage, the Dawson family will welcome her. We will address the dowry matter with her directly.”

“She will listen to me!” Denise declared confidently, scanning the table. Then she approached Bailee, stooped down, and grasped her hand. “Eileen, though I haven’t raised you these past years, I am your mother. Your marriage is crucial, and I must—”

quickly interjected in a hushed

Denise snapped, displeased. While it appeared she was scolding Judie, Denise’s real aim was

for your own good. Only your happiness will

angry. Ruby’s expression was dark. As Eileen’s stepmother, she was in an awkward position now. At a loss

you’ve confused me with someone else.” Eileen rose from her seat, disappointment and coldness evident in her eyes. “That’s my

to Eileen. Denise was convinced that Ruby wanted to

think you’d change so much over the

there, Bryan quickly stood up, blocking Denise’s

was forced to step back. Unable to discern

going to marry Eileen, right? My daughter is a graduate of a prestigious

She didn’t know what to do now. Should she engage in an argument with Denise and drive

and said, “Eileen, Bryan, let’s remember our hospitality. This is a happy occasion

dilemma. Before Eileen and Bryan could say

seats

before rising from her seat. “You two, switch seats with us. That’s Bryan, right? I’d like to sit beside Bryan’s mother; it’s more convenient

Judie said quickly, trying to remind

to Judie, walking over to Ruby and waiting for her and Bailee

to her feet,

longing for maternal affection. But now, she felt nothing but disgust toward Denise. “Now that you’re here, you stay and dine. The matter about my marriage concerns only me and my mother, Ruby. It is none of your business. If you’re satisfied with this, enjoy your meal here. If not, you’re

wanted to retort, but she noticed the man beside Eileen emanated a chilling

the Dawsons. We need to

her pride, resumed her seat, and requested additional cutlery

The dinner proceeded. Stella recognized that delving further into the dowry matter would be unwise, as it could cause discord. She didn’t want to discomfort

Stella avoided further discussion on the dowry matter or because the atmosphere felt somewhat awkward due to her presence, Denise lowered her posture slightly. Taking the initiative, she said, “You’re Bryan’s mother, correct? I see you’re still concerned about your son’s marriage at this age. If there’s

quickly said. “That’s