Chapter 33

Chapter 33:

Kristine’s friends whispered into her ear, and her face brightened at the sight of the bracelet Dane held. She had mentioned the Pauillac bracelet to Dane just days before and was amazed he had actually purchased it.

A grin spread across Kristine’s face, and she stood a bit taller. What did it matter if their parents preferred Madisyn? The affection of her brothers, especially Dane, was enough for her.

“Dane!” Kristine greeted with a beaming smile, her eyes filled with expectation.

Dane gave her a quick glance, nodding briefly before heading straight for Madisyn. The smile Kristine had held so confidently faded as she watched him bypass her entirely.

Madisyn, engrossed in conversation with guests, noticed a somewhat familiar figure approaching. His polite smile warmed as their eyes met. “Madisyn,” he called, his voice full of genuine affection.

Glenn, who had been speaking with a guest nearby, turned in surprise. “Dane, you’re back?”

“Of course,” Dane answered, presenting the bracelet. “I had to return for Madisyn’s welcome banquet. Here’s something for you. Hope you like it.”

Madisyn was taken aback by the lavish gift—a Pauillac bracelet worth a small fortune. Her surprise melted into gratitude as she slipped it onto her wrist. “Thank you, Dane. I absolutely love it.”

Dane’s smile widened, the warmth in his eyes unmistakable. Upon seeing Madisyn, he instantly recognized her as his sister—a reflection of their parents’ finest traits, both in beauty and grace. He wanted to chat further, but the event demanded their attention, and they agreed to catch up later.

Meanwhile, Kristine stood frozen, her smile faltering as tears welled up in her eyes. She had wanted that bracelet—she had expected it. To see it given to Madisyn left her heart aching.

“Kristine, don’t be upset,” one of her friends said, sensing her distress. “It’s her welcome party, so it’s natural she’d receive gifts. Maybe Dane has something else for you. He’s always looked out for you.”

Kristine nodded, trying to maintain composure, but the growing sense of isolation gnawed at her. “Yes, but it feels like Madisyn is taking all the attention. I’m worried everyone, even my brothers, will only notice her now.”

Her friends, feeling her pain, chimed in, “This will pass. People will see you’re the one who truly shines! That country girl is just trying to show off.”

“Exactly. And don’t forget, you’re practically engaged to Andrew Klein. Being Mrs. Klein is a far better position than anything Madisyn can offer.”

Just then, one friend nudged Kristine, “Look, Andrew’s here. Why don’t you go greet him?”

Kristine followed her gaze and saw Andrew’s striking figure enter the hall. He exuded elegance and power, drawing attention from everyone around him. Her heart fluttered, and she immediately started towards him, eager to make her presence known.

But before she could reach him, Andrew crossed the room and went straight to Madisyn, presenting her with a gift. Their interaction seemed effortless, the atmosphere between them warm and harmonious.

Kristine’s steps faltered. She watched as Andrew smiled at Madisyn, her chest tightening painfully. She couldn’t breathe.

Whispers floated around her, loud enough to pierce her thoughts.

“The real Miss Johns is stunning. Her elegance easily surpasses Kristine’s.”

“True, and even Andrew Klein brought her a gift. She must be really important. The real heir always outshines the adopted one.”

Kristine’s complexion paled. She had always known she wasn’t a biological member of the Johns family. She had worked harder than anyone to earn their love and admiration, yet here was Madisyn, effortlessly commanding attention the moment she returned.

In Madisyn’s radiant glow, Kristine felt herself shrink into the shadows, her grip tightening on her gown as if trying to steady herself.

Meanwhile, Madisyn was too busy mingling with the guests to notice Kristine’s distress. After a round of introductions and light conversation, she excused herself to the restroom, the evening’s events leaving her feeling slightly overwhelmed.

As she washed her hands, a sharp, scornful voice interrupted the quiet. “Hmm, so the country girl can clean up after all. Looks like everyone’s buying into your little act, huh?”

Madisyn looked up and saw a woman glaring at her through the mirror. She arched an eyebrow. “Are you talking to me?”

“Who else would it be?” the woman sneered.

Madisyn recognized her. It was Josie Reed, a member of the Reed family and one of Kristine’s close friends.

Without missing a beat, Madisyn replied coolly, “You shouldn’t judge a situation from just one perspective.”

“And who are you to give me advice?” Josie shot back. “Just so you know, even if Kristine isn’t a real Johns, she has loyal friends like me. We won’t stand by and let you mistreat her.”

Madisyn sighed, seeing no point in escalating the conversation. Josie seemed more misguided than malicious. “I’ve got nothing against Kristine, but thanks for your concern,” she said before walking away.

After exiting the restroom, Madisyn spotted Susan, who was by herself in a corner, enjoying some food. Susan’s face lit up upon seeing her. “Madisyn! I still can’t believe your real parents are the Johns family. You’re part of the wealthiest family now!”

Madisyn smiled warmly, though she wasn’t entirely comfortable with the notion of wealth being her defining feature. “I guess that’s true,” she replied, laughing softly. “Are you having fun, though?”

“It’s alright, but I feel a little out of place,” Susan admitted, glancing at her simple attire.

“Here, everyone is treated the same,” Madisyn reassured her, patting her friend’s arm gently. “Is there anything else you’d like to try?”

“Yes! Would you like some more food too?” Susan asked eagerly.

“Actually, I could go for a snack,” Madisyn replied with a grin, enjoying the relaxed moment with her friend.

Just as they were about to grab some food, someone bumped into Susan, nearly sending her plate flying.

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