Chapter 54
Chapter 54:
Elianna’s gaze snapped to Yelena, turning frosty in an instant. With a dismissive wave, she remarked coldly, “Donna, you really need to teach her some proper manners. The reunion banquet is just around the corner, and I won’t have it turn into a circus. If it does, you’ll have no one to blame but yourselves p>
Her sharp eyes lingered on Yelena, her irritation unmistakable. The very sight of the girl was enough to sour her mood. After all, Elianna had heard the whispers about Yelena’s upbringing among the nouveau riche—a background she deemed sorely lacking in refinement.
“I understand,” Donna replied with a forced smile. She gently took Yelena’s arm and led her away from the tense atmosphere. When they reached a quieter corner, Donna squeezed Yelena’s hand and said softly, “Don’t let your grandmother’s words get under your skin. She’s always been blunt, but you’re my daughter, and you being here with me is all that matters.” Donna’s maternal affection shone through, her words wrapping around Yelena like a warm hug.
Yelena’s heart softened, a flicker of warmth melting her usual cool demeanor. “I’m alright, Mom. Really, don’t worry about me p>
“That’s my girl,” Donna said with a relieved smile, patting Yelena’s arm affectionately.
The day of the Harris family’s grand reunion banquet arrived swiftly, buzzing with anticipation. Callum had sent out invitations far and wide, ensuring that every branch of their extended family would gather at the family villa for the lavish event.
Yelena, the true star of the occasion, stepped into the spotlight with grace, donning a stunning champagne cocktail dress. Its simple yet refined design exuded elegance while adding a subtle dash of youthful charm.
Bella, however, arrived in a show-stopping pink tulle gown that practically screamed for attention. Anyone unaware of the purpose of the banquet might have assumed she was the reason for the celebration.
As friends and family began to arrive, the atmosphere grew lively, with everyone radiating happiness and excitement. Yet, in the corners of the room, whispers stirred—some relatives couldn’t help but critique Yelena’s quiet demeanor, comparing her unfavorably to Bella’s more outgoing personality.
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Everyone was caught up in the joy of the evening, happily indulging in the food and drinks, laughter filling the air. Meanwhile, Callum and Donna were busy mingling with the guests, making sure everyone felt welcome and comfortable.
Bored with the endless mingling, Yelena slipped away to the tranquil pool area for a moment of solitude. She gazed at the shimmering water, her mind adrift.
Suddenly, a soft, sweet voice broke through Yelena’s thoughts. “Yelena, there you are! You know, today’s your big day. Are you letting those little comments from the relatives get to you?” Yelena turned to face Bella, her expression cool and unreadable. “Why should I be bothered?” she asked evenly.
“Oh, nothing much. Just some of them saying how, well, growing up in a nouveau riche family might’ve left you lacking… certain refinements. But hey, no need to get upset—it’s just the way things are, right p>
Bella’s lips curved into a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. The malicious glee in her voice was unmistakable, and for once, she made no effort to mask it. Gone was the image of the kind, considerate Bella she paraded around for others to see.
Yelena, unfazed, met her gaze with icy calm. “So, you’ve decided to drop the act, huh? You might want to think twice before pushing your luck—I don’t need an excuse to deal with you p>
Bella’s smile faltered, her expression darkening. “Don’t get ahead of yourself, Yelena,” she hissed, her voice dripping with venom. “Do you really think that coming back to the Harris family means you can take my place? Dream on. Grandma adores me, and in her eyes, you’re nothing more than bad luck wrapped in a pretty package p>
Bella had only recently caught wind of this, and it seemed to bring her a twisted sense of joy. No wonder Elianna always favored her—after all, she was seen as the family’s golden child, the one who brought good luck!