Chapter 329
Anna Ross didn't want them to continue discussing this topic.
She took out the prepared gift.
"Auntie, it was a bit rushed, so I didn't prepare anything expensive."
"I hope you don't mind."
She handed the gift box to Cecilia Roscente.
This exquisite little box was specially chosen by her.
Cecilia exchanged a smile with her daughter.
Joy radiated from her face.
"I'm just happy you thought of me."
The gift box was gently opened.
Surprise flashed in Cecilia's eyes.
This necklace was more unique than others she had received.
It suited her taste perfectly.
She couldn't help but glance at Anna a few more times.
Her fondness for this girl grew stronger.
Seeing the satisfied expression, Anna felt slightly relieved.
"Anna, thank you. I really like it."
Cecilia put away the gift.
She took Sophia Roscente and Anna's hands, leading them inside.
Anna maintained her smile.
She wasn't quite accustomed to such intimate gestures.
She had just taken a drink from Sophia when she heard a delicate female voice.
There was no need to guessโit was Chloe Valentine.
"Adrian~ You're finally here."
Adrian Sinclair slightly frowned.
He had wanted to speak with them for a moment.
But Chloe had already approached.
Anna moved to stand beside Sophia.
She turned her face away to avoid the line of sight.
Chloe deliberately adjusted her one-shoulder gown.
She immediately pressed close to Adrian upon arrival.
Her smile was sweet and charming.
She glanced at Anna beside them.
Jealousy flickered in her eyes.
Anna's outfit was too dazzling.
It almost overshadowed her own presence.
She soon pouted again.
Hugging Adrian's arm, she cooed.
"Adrian, why are you so late?"
"Grandpa and I have been waiting for you forever."
Cecilia cleared her throat lightly.
Sophia quickly interjected.
"Miss Valentine, you're not engaged yet."
"Isn't this a bit inappropriate in public?"
Chloe was momentarily speechless.
She didn't dare say more in front of elders.
She could only awkwardly let go.
Adrian remained expressionless and silent.
But his gaze inadvertently drifted toward the figure in white.
Chloe was burning with jealousy.
Yet she could only force herself to endure it.
Cecilia shook her head slightly.
She had been looking forward to meeting this future niece-in-law.
But today's encounter left her somewhat disappointed.
For some reason, she just couldn't bring herself to like her.
She really didn't know what the old man saw in her.
Just then, the old man walked over.
Chloe acted as if she had seen a lifesaver.
She eagerly went to greet him.
Cecilia also stepped forward to support her father.
She smiled and asked.
"Dad, how are you feeling?"
"Should Sophia accompany you upstairs to rest?"
"No need." The old man chuckled.
"I may be old, but I still want to enjoy the lively atmosphere."
His eyes swept over the mingling crowd.
Adrian turned to look.
When he turned back, the space beside him was empty.
Sophia was pulling Anna around the food area.
She held a plate of small cakes.
She fed a spoonful to Anna.
"Sis, this cake is absolutely amazing."
"Want to try it?"
Anna took a small taste.
A refreshing flavor instantly spread.
Though it was cake, it wasn't cloying at all.
She ate with great relish.
One spoonful after another.
A smile curled at the corners of her mouth.
Adrian absently swirled his red wine.
He watched this scene, unconsciously lost himself in thought.
Chloe saw this.
Her face turned green with anger.
Guests continued to stream into the hall.
Cecilia was busy entertaining everyone.