Chapter 235

Eleanor Roland was accustomed to this tone of speech and didn't feel targeted at all. Instead, she smiled warmly.

"Staying idle at home is so dull. Why not host a tea gathering for some excitement? Tea ceremonies are quite trendy lately, so I chose this theme specifically."

"You rarely attend social events, sister-in-law. Your presence today truly honors me. Please, come in—"

Eleanor's words were gracious and sincere. Even Beatrice Merouin, who usually clashed with her, couldn't find fault.

Soon, Margaret Evans arrived fashionably late with Chloe Valentine in tow.

The unfamiliar face immediately drew the ladies' attention.

"Margaret, who is this?"

"Such a young girl. Which family does she belong to?"

Margaret had prepared for this moment and introduced with a bright smile, "This is Chloe Valentine, the daughter of my dear friend. She's currently studying at MIT."

Chloe promptly greeted everyone with practiced politeness.

"She's still in college, no wonder she looks so youthful and vibrant."

"Female students at MIT are quite rare. How impressive."

MIT was renowned for its rigorous engineering programs, dominated by male students. Women had relatively easier admission—was this really a compliment?

Unfortunately, neither Margaret nor Chloe caught the underlying sarcasm.

The ladies exchanged knowing glances. Their polite smiles masked the disdain in their eyes.

—That dress is a three-year-old Celine design. Completely outdated. Probably dug up from some thrift store.

—How embarrassing to show up dressed like this at such an event.

—The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Everyone in their circle knew about the Evans heir getting a college girl pregnant.

Yet Margaret had the audacity to parade the girl around, passing her off as a friend's daughter?

What a pathetic cover-up.

They played along with the charade, already anticipating the juicy gossip this would provide later.

Margaret remained oblivious, mistaking their feigned admiration for genuine praise.

Chloe, intoxicated by her first taste of high society, floated on cloud nine.

"Mrs. Laurent, you're here too?" Margaret sidled up to Beatrice. "You look radiant today."

Hearing rumors of discord between the Laurent sisters-in-law, she decided to curry favor.

"That horse-face skirt is exquisite. It makes your skin glow like porcelain."

Beatrice gave her a cool glance. "This is keshi silk."

Margaret's smile faltered.

When the other woman clearly showed disinterest, she pressed on undeterred.

"Ah, keshi silk! They say every inch is worth its weight in gold. Truly magnificent."

Her eyes gleamed as she added pointedly, "I recall Eleanor owns similar skirts too. Several, if I'm not mistaken."