Chapter 31

Hailey had heard the rumors–Owen didn’t get along with his family’s second branch. Seeing it firsthand, she realized just

how true that was.

She smiled politely at Juno, “Yes, Juno, I’m the second daughter of the Dalton family. I just recently returned home”

Hailey’s calm, respectful demeanor made it hard for Juno to say anything harsh, even if she wanted to.

At that moment, Richard walked in, carrying the gifts Hailey had brought.

Owen spoke up in his usual tone. “Hailey brought some gifts for everyone. Hope you’ll accept them.”

Richard distributed the gifts among the family, leaving only a bracelet untouched.

Even those who had been dismissive of Hailey carlier hesitated–after all, it was hard to criticize someone after accepting their generosity.

Hailey turned to Penelope, revealing the bracelet. “Mrs. Calhoun, I picked this out for you. I hope you like it.”

Penelope’s face lit up with a warm smile. “Like it? I love it! Come, put it on for me.”

Hailey smiled and fastened the bracelet for Penelope as the family murmured their approval.

For now, at least, everything seemed harmonious–whatever tensions lurked beneath the surface remained hidden behind polite smiles.

Just then, the butler approached and whispered something to Penelope. “Miss Gibbs is here,” he announced. “And the Blackwells will be arriving soon.”

Penelope nodded, her smile deepening.

The butler hurried to the entrance to greet the

guests.

A moment later, a woman in a soft pink dress stepped inside.

Jeanie Gibbs–the country’s most famous actress–was as beautiful as ever. She had a delicate face, her features soft and refined. She was tall and slender, with an air of quiet elegance.

was clear who she had really come

with a graceful smile.”Mrs. Calhoun, I’m sorry I’m late. Happy birthday–I brought you a little something. I hope

girl. You didn’t have to trouble

softened. “Your birthday is too

added, “Besides, I haven’t seen Owen in

him shyly, but Owen was looking

Hailey. Owen’s girlfriend.” She smiled knowingly. “After all these years, he finally made my wish come

hers, giving it a reassuring pat. Her eyes crinkled with a warm, knowing smile—an unspoken promise that

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Chapter 31

jeanie’s

in the girl was

guest

the man who had never let a woman dose,

at Penelope’s

her voice sharp. “And which family are you from?

she’s from the Dalton

snapped

one of Owen’s

her, but the

stare but still muttered, “Well,

stood and turned to Jeanie, her voice smooth and steady, “Yes, that’s me. Halley Dalton Shee

elegant. Nothing about her suggested she had spent years away from high society,

her, Jeanie’s carefully polished charm suddenly felt forced.

she had to greet

a brief moment, the

further, Penelope clapped

her. “Of course. Let me help

as strong as ever. Besides, if you dote on me too much, Owen

at Owen.

grip warm and firm. “That’s right,” he said lazily.

“Listen to him! What a spoiled grandson I raised.”

Jeanie,

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