Chapter 174

Vivian rose gracefully from her seat, her movements fluid as she handed Beatrice a steaming cup of coffee. Her gaze lingered momentarily on the dazzling necklace adorning Margaret's neck—a piece that seemed to command attention effortlessly. The sight stirred something within her, but before she could dwell on it, Bianca's shrill voice cut through the air.

"Dominic's arrived!" She was practically dragging him toward Leonard.

"Good evening, Leonard," Dominic greeted with practiced charm, his smile effortlessly disarming. "You're looking as distinguished as ever."

Bianca noticed Vivian's lingering stare and seized the opportunity. "Aunt Margaret, that necklace Vivian's wearing? It's a gift from Adrian. Can you imagine? Today is Grandma's birthday, yet Vivian still managed to receive a present." She turned to Dominic with a pointed look. "Dominic, isn't that necklace valued at $10.73 million?"

Dominic, clearly caught off guard, rubbed his chin awkwardly. His response was smooth but evasive. "Margaret, you don't need diamonds to outshine anyone—your presence alone does that."

Before Margaret could respond, Vivian spoke softly. "If you admire it, Margaret, I'd be happy to give it to you."

Margaret's composure remained unshaken. "That won't be necessary. Pink isn't my color."

Dominic smoothly redirected the conversation. "Exactly! Margaret was born to wear rubies—regal and timeless."

Adrian, who had been observing silently, added coolly, "Keep an eye out for exceptional rubies on the market. If you find something suitable, purchase it and have it delivered to Blackwood Manor."

Margaret took a sip of her coffee, her expression unreadable. "I'm past the age for flashy jewelry."

Beatrice interjected with a knowing smile, flashing her own diamond ring. "If I can still wear jewelry at my age, you certainly can, Margaret. You're far from old."

"Beatrice, it's your birthday—of course you should indulge," Margaret replied smoothly, deftly shifting the focus.

Bianca, however, wasn't ready to abandon her attempts to undermine Vivian. But before she could speak again, Dominic placed a firm hand on her shoulder. "Bianca, I'm feeling peckish. Would you mind showing me where the hors d'oeuvres are?"

As Bianca reluctantly accompanied Dominic, Vivian couldn't help but notice how he—someone who had never shown her particular kindness before—had intervened multiple times that evening to spare her potential embarrassment. It was an unexpected gesture that didn't escape her notice.

Bianca's expression darkened as Dominic led her away, her resentment toward Vivian growing more intense by the minute.

The birthday celebration was in full swing, with nearly all the guests having arrived. Margaret knew she couldn't postpone her hosting duties any longer. With visible reluctance, she set aside her coffee and rejoined the gathering.

Beatrice, ever perceptive to family dynamics, saw an opportunity to ease the tension between Vivian and Margaret. "Vivian," she suggested warmly, "your mother-in-law could use assistance with the guests. Why don't you lend her a hand?"

"Of course," Vivian replied without hesitation.

Margaret initially wanted to refuse. However, noticing Adrian's indifferent expression, a flicker of irritation passed through her eyes.