#Chapter 80: Uninvited Guests

The servants brought out soup bowls for each of us seated. Terry and Julian both received theirs before me. To do something with my hands, I was eager to lift my soup spoon and stir, even though it was yet too hot to eat. I couldn’t look at Terry anymore. I didn’t want to see the way he was looking at me. “I’m surprised you decided to stay with us so long, Uncle,” Julian said, speaking around me. “I’m sure your mansion would be much more comfortable for you.” “As I am to be a judge at the next Ball, I thought it best to arrive early and assess the candidates on their own merits first, before I am given the specific criteria for the event.” Terry tilted his head. “Besides, my mansion has had some issues of late.” “Oh? I’m sorry to hear that. Have you been letting in the wrong sort of guests again?” “Quite the contrary. I’ve had a few uninvited guests.” “How strange,” Julian said, maintaining his smile. Meanwhile, my heart was threatening to beat straight out of my chest. “It is q