Chapter 465

Kelly had had enough. With a sharp glare and a dramatic turn, she stormed off. Her voice was even loud enough for everyone at the banquet to hear. The garden fell into stunned silence. Dozens of mocking eyes turned. Sarah stood frozen, mortified. Her legs felt like they were filled with lead. She couldn't move. She didn't dare. A few beats later, Serena appeared, having caught wind of the disturbance. She approached with a serene smile. "Oh dear, our mistake. We're still young—if we've done anything wrong, please forgive us. Uncle, Aunt, everyone... do guide us when we stumble. But don't upset yourselves over it. Seeing you frown makes Grandpa uneasy." Her tone was humble and apologetic. But the words carried weight. With a gentle smile and soft voice, she soothed the guests—then subtly invoked Calvin's authority to silence them. A spoonful of honey, followed by the unspoken crack of a whip. No one dared to complain after that. On the contrary, they were impressed. How could so