Under the Heiress' Facade

The eldest son of the Luddens was not in Norburgh. Only Andrew, his wife, their other son, Christopher, and Andrew's mother stayed there. Terence shamelessly said, "Dean Ludden, Mrs. Ludden, Christopher, you must attend the Gaskells' annual banquet at Imperial Hotel on the fifth." They would send an invitation to the Luddens each year, but only Christopher, who had a good relationship with Zyler, would attend. However, things were different this year. Christopher had a falling out with Zyler, so they were worried that even Christopher wouldn't show up.

Queenie had found out about Bernard's whereabouts. She heard that he was going to an event that day, so she followed closely behind him as soon as he arrived.

"Bernard... Mr. Killian."

She remembered how Terence had told her about Bernard publicly not acknowledging him, so she quickly changed her address.

"The Gaskells' annual banquet is on the fifth and will be held at Imperial Hotel. We're looking forward to your presence."

Queenie offered the invitation with both hands as she spoke.

She had always been wary of Bernard in the past, especially when she knew of the Killians' shares he was set to inherit. So, no matter how arrogant she usually was, she would humble herself before him.

Bernard glanced sideways at her and the invitation. However, he did not accept it. He simply strode away, bypassing her.

"Mr. Killian will decide whether to attend based on his schedule," Douglas said as he took the invitation and hurried after Bernard.

Queenie stood frozen, her smile stiff.

Bernard had never attended the Gaskells' annual banquet before. She used to think it was because she hadn't delivered the invitation personally and hadn't been sincere enough. Now, she realized it wasn't about that at all. He simply disliked the Gaskells.

In the elevator, Douglas said while looking at the invitation, "The Gaskells' annual banquet is at the same time and place as the Everetts. Did Queenie do this on purpose?"

Bernard narrowed his eyes as a mocking smile appeared on his face.

"Really? Then let's prepare a big gift for the Everetts."

Hearing this, Douglas could only silently pray for the Gaskells.

Soon, it was the day of the banquet.

Light music played in the background in the banquet hall on the Imperial Hotel's third floor, where distinguished guests mingled around a lavish feast. Queenie and Terence moved through the bustling scene with champagne in hand, greeting guests. Their faces were glowing with happiness.

At that moment, their assistant approached and reminded them, "Mr. and Mrs. Gaskell, Dean Ludden's family of three has arrived."

They wondered if Andrew and his family were representing the Luddens since all three of them showed up.

It was a significant honor for the Gaskells that the Luddens, one of the four influential families, attended the annual banquet.

Terence and Queenie hurried to the elevator to personally greet them, not forgetting to call the media for photos.

When the elevator door opened, a

waiter held it as Andrew and his wife stepped out, arm in arm. Christopher followed behind them. The family of three was dressed elegantly and carried themselves with grace.

"Dean Ludden, Mrs. Ludden, Christopher, what an honor to have you here."

Terence stepped forward with a smile.

"Mrs. Ludden seems to be getting younger, and Christopher is also growing more handsome. Come Let's head inside." Queenie said with a smile as she led them into the banquet hall.

Other guests soon noticed the commotion.

"It's impressive that they could invite the second son of the Luddens."

"Indeed. The Luddens only appear at important events and rarely attend private banquets."

"I'm glad I came today. I must chat with them later."

These murmurs reached Queenie

and Terence leaving them with a sense of pride. The arrival of Andrew's family of three had

l

ensured the banquet's success. The Gaskells' status in Norburgh was secured. This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

"Didn't you say this was the Everetts' banquet?" Andrew turned to ask Christopher.