Chapter 1972

Sensing a tense undercurrent, Lucia sighed and addressed the room.

“I called you here today because I need to discuss something important.

We’re a family and should strive to maintain a harmonious atmosphere.

”

Her gaze briefly met Lindsay’s before turning back to Stella and Matthew.

With genuine concern, she said, “Lindsay has spent the last few years abroad.

She’s still young and might have unintentionally caused some disturbances.

Please, if she’s wronged you, forgive her.

”

Stella, initially puzzled by the sudden summons, now understood it was Lindsay who had asked Lucia to help smooth things over.

However, she was unaware of what Lindsay might have said to Lucia.

Wanting to ease Lucia’s worries, Stella responded with grace, “Don’t fret.

We won’t hold it against her.

Everything will be fine.

”

Lucia’s face lit up with relief.

“Stella, I’m so glad to hear you can forgive her.

”

Waldo turned the conversation to Matthew.

“I heard about the broken engagement between the Lowell and Crawford families.

You two were at the party; what happened?”

Matthew brushed it off.

“It’s not important.

Bennett will manage it.

”

Noting Matthew’s reluctance to elaborate, Waldo chose not to press further.

As they conversed, the butler approached and announced, “Sir, Mrs.

Crawford and her daughter have arrived.

”

Lucia and Waldo exchanged puzzled Looks.

Lucia muttered, “Mrs.

Crawford and her daughter? What brings them here?”

While the Clarks had longstanding ties with the Lowell family, they were scarcely acquainted with the Crawfords.

Lucia was baffled by their unexpected visit.

Matthew and Stella exchanged a knowing glance, realizing the Crawfords had seized the opportunity to meet them while the soft- hearted Lucia and Waldo were present.

But how had the Crawford family learned they were at the Clark family home?

Stella and Matthew simultaneously turned their gazes toward Lindsay, who appeared just as baffled.

Although Waldo was unsure of the Crawford family’s reasons for visiting, he opted for courtesy over confrontation.

He instructed the butler, “Please, let them in.

”

The butler nodded, turned, and exited.

Soon after, Joann and her mother, Molly Crawford, entered.

Joann had hesitated, but under her mother’s insistence, she gathered her courage and stepped into the room.

The engagement party debacle had prompted the Lowell family to consider calling off the engagement.

However, Joann was not ready to forfeit her chance to marry into the Lowell family.

Her mother had assured her that mending ties with the Clark family and Stella could sway Bennett to forgive her.