"Mom, Prudence said you wanted to talk to me."Yes, my dear," she said gently, folding her hands in her lap. Her tone was calm, but I noticed the tension behind her eyes."Actually, the thing is… your dad's family members will be here today."
My eyes widened. "I'm going to meet Grandma? And my aunties?" Yes, my child," she smiled faintly. "They've been wanting to see you for a while."When is Mark coming back?" Mom asked. "He said he'll touch down around 7 p.m., so he might arrive a bit late."I wanted him to meet your Grandma and aunties."
"Don't worry," I assured mom. "They'll be here for a few days. He'll definitely meet them."Alright," she nodded. "I'll get ready then." But I paused, watching her. "Mom… you don't look happy. Is something wrong?"
She hesitated, then gave me a soft smile. "I'm fine, dear. It's just… your dad's family members don't like me very much. So, whenever they're coming, I tend to feel this way." My brows furrowed. "Mom, I won't meet them if they make you feel uncomfortable."
"No, dear," she said, reaching for my hand. "Don't worry about me. They'll like you because you're family." And you're family too, Mom." She squeezed my hand. "I'll be fine, my child. Just go get ready. First impressions matter with them." The maids moved with the precision of a royal court, tying my hair into a sleek ponytail and applying a soft, dewy layer of makeup. I walked into my grand walk-in closet, surrounded by designer pieces and velvet-lined shelves. I chose a delicate floral dress with pearl buttons and paired it with matching jewelry.
As I stepped out of the room, one of the butlers approached with a small bow.
Ma'am, they are here," he announced.
Mom and I immediately stood from our seats in the lounge just as Dad led three elegant women into the living room.
A tall, sharp-featured woman with silver-streaked hair and piercing eyes stepped forward. Despite her wrinkles, there was undeniable regality in her poise. If it isn't my granddaughter," she said, approaching me with open arms.
"Grandma!" I smiled, stepping into her embrace. "My name is Amelia, my dear," she said, holding my face in her hands. "You're even more beautiful in person. So elegant, so refined… the true definition of a Riverson heiress."
"You flatter me, Grandma," I said with a warm smile. Dad beamed beside us. "Aurora, meet your Aunt Emma." Aunty Emma, a stunning brunette with graceful features, stepped forward. Her resemblance to Dad was striking. Aunt," I greeted, hugging her.
"Oh, darling," she said excitedly, "I'm so happy to finally meet you. My daughter Gianna is going to lose her mind when she finds out. She follows all your social handles she's a huge fan."Where is she? You should have brought her."She's enjoying her summer in Paris, but she'll be back before the ball. You two must meet."And this," Dad continued, "is your Aunt Olivia."
Olivia, a striking blonde who clearly inherited her beauty from Grandma Amelia, extended her hand. "My dear, it's wonderful meeting you," she said, and I leaned in for a warm hug. "My son, Liam, is away on business, and my daughter, Ivy, just left for her honeymoon. A shame you missed the wedding, but they'll both be back before the ball."I'm looking forward to meeting them all," I said sincerely.
Just then, Mom stepped forward with a soft smile. "Emma… Olivia…" she greeted politely.
They said nothing. Not a smile. Not even a nod. I looked at Mom and saw the quiet hurt in her eyes. She gave me a small shake of her head "I'm fine" before walking toward Grandma Amelia. She gently kissed her hand.
"Hmph," Grandma scoffed. "The only good thing you've ever done was give my son such a lovely daughter." Mother…" Dad warned, his voice tense. Emma, Olivia dinner has been served," Mom announced calmly.
"Don't think I'll ever forgive you for losing my grandson," Amelia snapped. Must you always bring that up?" Dad said wearily.
William, don't test me. I'm in a good mood today, and I won't let her ruin it." She turned to me instead, her mood shifting.
Aurora dear, help me to the dining hall."
"Of course, Grandma," I said gently, turning once more to Mom. She gave me an approving nod. The dining room was a masterpiece gold chandeliers, crystal goblets, silver cutlery polished to perfection. The meal was exquisite, and I savored every bite like it was art.
"Hazel dear," Grandma asked, dabbing her mouth with a linen napkin. "Are you married?"
Yes, I am," I said proudly. "My husband is Mark Ryan Wilson. He should be here by now. I'm not sure what's delaying him."
"Wilson?" Grandma echoed, her tone suddenly piqued. "Interesting… your husband belongs to such a prestigious family."
"She never ceases to impress," Aunt Olivia chimed. "I'm surprised you don't know him, Mother. He's second after William second richest."Hmm," Grandma mused, raising a perfectly arched brow. Before the conversation could drift, Prudence stepped into the room.
"Ma'am Aurora… Sir Mark is here. He's waiting for you in the living room."Thank you, Prudence," I said, rising gracefully. "I guess he's here," I smiled. Go on, my dear," Grandma said with a wave of her hand. "We'll join you shortly."