Chapter 63: ENGAGEMENT PARTY
The guests had started arriving, their chatter and laughter echoing through the grand hall as the engagement party began to come alive. Claudia, nearly ready, stood in front of her ornate mirror, admiring her reflection. Her gown sparkled under the soft glow of the chandelier, and her makeup was impeccable, highlighting her striking features.
Beside her stood Harlow, silent and composed, with a few maids bustling around to perfect every detail of Claudia’s appearance. Harlow’s hands were clasped in front of her, her expression calm but unreadable. A soft, almost imperceptible smile graced her lips, though inside, she was burning.
Rage coursed through her veins, untamed, relentless, and consuming. But she held it back, every ounce of fury hidden behind her mask of serenity. The delicate facade didn’t falter, even as her father, Frank, entered the room.
"Claudia," he called softly, his voice warm and indulgent. It was the same tone he had once used for Harlow when she was his golden child. His steps were purposeful as he approached his eldest daughter, completely ignoring the younger one standing by her side.
Harlow’s fingers twitched, and for a brief moment, she almost scoffed. Of course, he wouldn’t acknowledge her. Even if he knew the truth. Even if he knew that Claudia had almost ruined the auction, and it was Harlow who had saved the day. His favoritism remained unchanged.
"How are you feeling? Your mother mentioned some concerns," Frank asked Claudia, his voice gentle and full of care. He brought her to sit on her dressing table as he helped her select the jewels she would need for tonight.
The diamond jewel Claudia was holding, was part of Harlow’s jewel collection at the auction. She had wanted to keep her mother’s legacy with the jewel, but it got stolen.
Harlow bit the inside of her cheek to stop herself from reacting. She had asked herself countless times why Frank treated her this way. Why did he suddenly hate her so much?
Why he showered Claudia with unconditional love and attention while she was left to shoulder the blame for everything that went wrong?