Chapter 86
Chapter 86:
The undeniable truth was laid bare for all to see. She had truly been fooled!
Bella could hardly process what had just happened.
Though many cast sympathetic glances her way, Bella could feel the pity laced within them, and it made her skin crawl. Shame and humiliation coursed through her, the desire to disappear overwhelming.
Seeing Bella’s dazed expression and vacant stare, Donna stepped forward, her sigh soft but audible. Her voice, calm and measured, carried an attempt at comfort. “These con artists today are truly shameless. Bella, don’t dwell on it too much. Think of it as a lesson. Your grandmother knows your heart was in the right place p>
Elianna, noticing the strained atmosphere, quickly nodded in agreement. “Yes, Bella, I know you meant well. This bracelet is still lovely—don’t let this ruin the evening. I can wear them on different occasions p>
Internally, Elianna couldn’t help but feel frustrated. Yelena’s gift had sparked this entire debacle, turning what should have been a joyous celebration into a spectacle. Ever since Yelena’s return, the family dynamics had grown increasingly complex.
Callum, ever pragmatic, broke the awkward silence. “I’ll have someone look into this. We may still be able to recover some of the money,” he said, his tone firm.
Bella forced a small, apologetic smile, her voice barely audible. “Yes… I’ll be more cautious next time. I wasn’t careful enough p>
As everyone offered words of comfort, Bella’s face burned with humiliation. She bit her lip gently, the sting of shame washing over her like a tide.
For the first time, the spotlight she craved felt searing and unforgiving, her earlier pride crumbling into deep embarrassment.
Her gaze flicked to Yelena, who stood calmly amidst the crowd, her expression composed and unreadable. Bella’s heart twisted with resentment.
If Yelena hadn’t brought the same gift, none of this would have happened. She wouldn’t have been exposed, and she wouldn’t feel the weight of so many eyes casting judgment her way. The blame, in Bella’s mind, fell squarely on Yelena.
gⱯ𝗅𝗇0ν𝖊𝗅𝘀.𝗰𝗈𝗺, 𝒶𝒸𝒸𝑒𝓈𝓈 𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒
Finally, the situation was deemed resolved.
The guests, ever adaptable, resumed their chatter and laughter, their attention shifting back to the lavishness of the celebration. The tension dissipated as the banquet regained its lively atmosphere.
Yelena, however, remained on the periphery, her gaze scanning the room. She felt no need to linger in the spotlight, instead deciding to find a quiet corner where she could enjoy a moment of solitude—and perhaps something to eat.
Despite the minor hiccup, the banquet as a whole was still a success.
As the evening wound down, Katelyn made her plans to stay at her brother’s home for a while to keep their mother company. She often visited anyway, as the proximity made it convenient, and her husband’s family encouraged her to maintain good relations with her own.
The Harris family, being the wealthiest in Eighfast, carried a reputation that extended beyond their wealth. Their influence had proven advantageous for their in-laws, the Herrera family, who had enjoyed substantial benefits from the connection over the years.
The day after the grand banquet was a weekend, and with everyone free, the household was abuzz with idle chatter. Gazing out at the brilliant sunshine, Katelyn brightened up. “Donna, it’s perfect weather today. Why not take a leisurely stroll? A change of scenery could be nice p>
Donna, who had yet to show Yelena around since her return, immediately agreed. “Absolutely, let’s do it!” Their destination—the grandest mall in Eighfast.
The mall was an oasis of luxury, offering an extravagant selection of high-end goods. They made their way directly to the fifth floor—the top level, a haven for fashionistas.