76. Eyes, Ears

The rectangular table had eight chairs. One chair was placed at each end of the table, and the remaining three chairs were arranged facing each other on each side. Gerald sat at one end of the table, and Mrs. Rosaline sat at the opposite end. Ariana sat to Gerald's right, and Axel sat to Ariana's right, leaving one chair empty. Meanwhile, on Gerald's left, Karenina, his mother, and Ariana's mother were seated.

"It feels like a complete family, doesn't it?" Mrs. Caitlyn exclaimed loudly. It was clear that her gaze was directed at Karenina and Gerald. Ariana understood the implication. In truth, her heart stung a little due to her mother's blatant discrimination against her and Karenina. Yet, Ariana chose not to resist.

"Of course," Ariana heard Mrs. Rosaline speak up. "In the end, my grandson gets a good wife, and Axel gets the mother he needs. What more could we ask for?" Mrs. Rosaline's gaze shifted towards Ariana, a warm smile on her face that made Ariana feel a bit warmer.

A sco