The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Chapter 175

Judith held a position of considerable influence in Rivenwood, and she had a reputation for maintaining her dignity. She usually stayed in the upstairs lounge, rarely coming down to entertain guests. So, it was indeed surprising to see her approach a young one for a casual conversation.

Arabella was particularly taken aback.

Vivienne had turned her banquet into a joke, and Arabella had expected Judith, if not to chastise Vivienne, to at least give her a cold shoulder.

But what was Judith’s intent with this friendly and proactive derneanor?

“Grandmother, do you know my sister?” Arabella asked, feigning curiosity.

Vivienne paused upon hearing this.

The Brooks family?

Her gaze swept across the members of the Brooks family present, briefly meeting Scott’s probing eyes, then passing over the solemn faces of Beatrice and her two sons. She cast an inscrutable glance at Arabella.

Grandmother, huh? Interesting.

“I met Ms. Vivienne when I was in a spot of trouble in Havenwood. She saved my life.” Judith began, causing Arabella to gasp in surprise. “It turns out that she’s your sister. What a small world, isn’t it?”

Judith then continued, expressing her gratitude to Vivienne. “Thank you for your help that day. Ms. Vivienne. If it hadn’t been for you and Mr. Ellington, I might not be here today. I’ve been looking for an opportunity to thank you both, but I didn’t know who you were. Now, I finally have the chance.”

Those around them exchanged surprised glances. Vivienne seemed to be quite fortunate. Not only had she won the favor of the Ellington family, becoming Percival’s fiancée, but she was also now owed a favor by Judith.

Wouldn’t that mean she could do as she pleased in Rivenwood?

Vivienne’s attitude remained indifferent, whether it was about the Ellington family, the Brooks family repaying a favor, or settling a grudge.

never paid much attention

Arabella was seething

been as respectful to her as

wonder Vivienne had the audacity to ruin her banquet. She must have known that Judith wouldn’t stop

my sister save you? What happened?” Arabella clenched her fists, struggling to

banquet. It wouldn’t be appropriate to discuss it further.

Scott, who had been

put an end to the fashion show,

moved to the main banquet hall as Scott’s suggestion deftly shifted their focus. No one mentioned the incident

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Chapter

had been hired by the books, family at a

the hall dimmed suddenly, leaving only a single spotlight on the piano. towe ponytail sat at the piano. His

overhearing the sighs

prodigy, having gained international fame for his piano skills at the age of 18 but she because he spent most of his time practicing the piano

each of his performances, he would simply close the lid of the piano and leave, not bother

savoring the beaublul melody, he got

across the crowd. He seemed surprised to see her there, and after roding her,

a stir in the banquet hall.

in surprise. “He was looking in our direction. Was

the Brooks family’s influence, someone like Debra wouldn’t he been invited to her banquet. So, she wasn’t sure if Debra was

it, Arabella said, “Maybe. But I don’t know

you don’t know him, then why would he acknowledge you?”

know. Maybe because I’m the guest of honor today?” Arabella gave a nervous

even acknowledge my grandpa. He wouldn’t give you special treatment for that reason.”

good at playing the piano. You must have won his approval. He respects you, hence

average at best.” Arabella modestly brushed off Helen’s compliments. but her eyes darted to Judith and her group. After seeing the pride on their faces, Arabella felt a