Chapter 495:
There was no way heâd let anyone hurt Harlee, not now, not ever.
Several days passed, and the celebration of Wiltonâs fifty-third birthday arrived. Known for his low-key nature, Wilton typically celebrated with just a handful of close friends and family. This year, however, marked a departure from tradition.
Only three days prior, he had sat down with Lonnie and Skyla to orchestrate a special announcement at his birthday party: that Harlee was to be officially recognized as his goddaughter.
Consequently, the Morgan family buzzed with unusual activity on the day of the celebration.
The usual assembly of family friends, relatives, and Wiltonâs business associates was joined by Lonnie, Skyla, Brenton, Clint, and Fletcher, guests who typically remained on the fringes of the Morgan familyâs social circle.
Even notable personalities like Sprague were spotted among the attendees, eager to observe the proceedings.
At the entrance, Lindsay stood with an icy expression, her eyes darting frequently to the exterior.
Beside her was Etta, noting the chill in her demeanor.
âMiss Morgan, does it bother you that your parents have chosen to appoint Harlee as their goddaughter without prior discussion with you?â Etta inquired, her voice laced with concern.
On Wiltonâs birthday, a day meant to celebrate him, Lindsay, his only biological daughter, hadnât immediately been told about the decision regarding the goddaughter.
ððtï½ ðt ðððððððð ðð gαlnovels.ï½Î¿m
Etta pondered the implications of Lindsayâs position in Wiltonâs affections, which could critically shape their potential collaboration.
Recalling the matter, Lindsayâs irritation was palpable as she rolled her eyes dismissively. If she hadnât probed about the unusually grand scale of this yearâs festivities the night before, she would have remained oblivious to the goddaughterâs appointment.
âDoes Harlee honestly believe she can just waltz into the Morgan family like she belongs?â Lindsay scoffed, her tone laced with scorn.
Pleased, Etta smiled and gently linked arms with Lindsay, trying to soften the mood.
âYou seem to have a strategy brewing.
Are you anticipating the arrival of someone significant?â
With a swift, dismissive gesture, Lindsay pulled her arm away, her disdain unmistakable.
âKeep your hands off me!â Lindsay had no patience to spell things out for Etta, whom she considered undeserving of such explanations.
Unfazed, Etta maintained a stoic facade, showing no sign of offense at Lindsayâs clear contempt.
Her ability to shield her inner thoughts was impeccable, a skill that had fooled Lonnie, Skyla, and Fletcher for far too long. Moreover, Etta possessed a magnetic charm that endeared her to others effortlessly. This charm had paved the way for prosperous relationships with the high society of Baythorn, swiftly securing her a lucrative rapport with Lindsay, yielding a steady flow of millions each month.
Observing Etta, who knew her position well, Lindsay felt a surge of gratification. She had originally planned to present Etta at the eveningâs gathering but now contemplated extending her involvement.
.
.
.