Chapter 385



“Well, I do know a bit about art. I heard about your passion for paintings and calligraphy, and I feel fortunate that we share this interest. So, Mrs. Martel, I implore you, for my sake, don’t be harsh on Evelyn. I’m confident the blame lies entirely with Kallie. Everyone here can vouch for that.”

Charlee offered a noncommittal smile and said nothing. Tears welled up in Evelyn’s eyes as she looked at Melinda with gratitude, and then her sobbing grew more intense. “Charlee, someone has finally spoken up for me! Why can’t you believe me? Are you scared of Kallie? You say the word, and her auction house will be doomed.”

“Shut up!” Joanna rubbed her temples, visibly irritated. She waved her hand dismissively and commanded, “Take her out of here, now.”

Under her breath, Joanna couldn’t resist another jab, muttering that Evelyn was both foolish and embarrassing.

Once Evelyn was escorted away, the room fell into an immediate hush.

Charlee reached over and gently squeezed Melinda’s hand, offering a pat.

Melinda felt both honored and shocked by the gesture, her cheeks coloring with a blush. Having Charlee as an ally would mean she no longer needed to fear the Reeves family or Kallie.

But Charlee’s next words abruptly burst Melinda’s bubble. Despite the warm smile, there was a cool undertone in Charlee’s voice. As she gazed at Melinda, her expression was serene yet distant.

“I’ve met many young people eager to win my favor, hoping to gain something in return. I have always made it clear that no one should offer me expensive gifts. It’s too close to bribery for my taste.

“You are here to celebrate my birthday, and your good wishes and sincerity are more than enough. I approached you, aiming to give the painting back to you. If the painting is genuine, it must cost a great deal of money. However, it appears I might have misjudged you.”

Everyone could tell that Charlee meant something else. Yet, Melinda was visibly thrilled, clearly having taken Charlee’s words at face value. With a quick shake of her head, she said, “Oh, Mrs. Martel, please don’t think so. My gift to you wasn’t meant to imply anything beyond a gesture of respect. You remind me so much of my own mother. Please, don’t feel obligated. Think of me as someone younger, like a daughter, perhaps.”

The onlookers exchanged mocking glances and inwardly scoffed. Was Melinda really asking Charlee to see her as a daughter? More like Melinda wanted to secure a place as Charlee’s goddaughter, flattering herself into the family.

Standing nearby, Charlee’s daughter, Joanna, frowned, and her expression clouded over at once.

Kallie, with a hint of sarcasm, chimed in, “Did you even consider asking Miss Martel how she feels about suddenly having another ‘sister’?”

Melinda’s smile stiffened before morphing into a look of self-pity.

“Kallie, I’m not sure how I’ve upset you. Your daughter framed mine for theft, and now this accusation? It seems you’re just envious of the bond I share with Mrs. Martel, resentful that I understand her needs better than you.”

Melinda then faced Charlee with feigned concern for Kallie, remarking, “Charlee, please don’t hold it against Kallie. That’s just how she’s always been. Back when she was part of the Reeves family, she depended heavily on Roderick and developed a bit of an ego. I don’t believe she meant any harm. Please accept my apologies for her daughter taking Evelyn’s belongings.” Melinda’s tone was unnervingly sweet.

Kallie noticed Charlee’s expression growing increasingly stern, and she nearly let out a chuckle.

.

.

.