Chapter 97

Shame burned through Thaddeus like wildfire. Jareth observed everything, his chest tightening with each passing second.

The adversary was formidable. What could he possibly do? He needed a solution, and fast!

"Mr. Kingsley, your kindness means the world to me," Evadne murmured gratefully.

"Enough of that—today's your birthday! Let's focus on happier things," Frederic interjected with a bright smile. "Why don't we see what gifts the youngsters have prepared? After that, we can kick off the celebration. No sense keeping our guests waiting."

"Absolutely! Let's open the presents!" Hamiltion clapped his hands like an excited child.

What an endearing old soul!

First, Jareth and other close acquaintances of the Abernathy family stepped forward with their offerings. Hamiltion accepted each one with a gracious nod.

Jareth approached Hamiltion, executing a flawless bow. "Thad and I are practically brothers, which makes you my grandfather too! Wishing you the happiest of birthdays, with many more joyful years ahead!"

"Such a fine young man! Thank you!" Hamiltion beamed.

"Happy birthday, Mr. Kingsley!" Glynnis stepped up, cheeks tinged pink, positioning herself deliberately close to Jareth. "I heard you adore antiques, so I chose this especially for you."

She leaned in slightly, but Jareth sidestepped without sparing her a glance.

Glynnis wobbled, nearly losing her balance before steadying herself.

Muffled laughter rippled through the crowd.

Humiliation burned through her. She silently cursed every snickering guest.

A servant then presented the antique vase Glynnis had procured.

Hamiltion gave an approving nod. "Lovely. Thank you."

Glynnis' lips curled smugly—until Mr. Murray approached, holding a rolled parchment tied with silk. "Mr. Kingsley, this is from Mari."

"Mari's gift? Let me see!" Hamiltion unfurled the paper, his initial surprise melting into delighted laughter. "Is this me? Did Mari sketch this? Remarkable talent! She's truly gifted!"

The guests crowded around, leaving Glynnis forgotten.

The drawing depicted Hamiltion in flowing robes, head thrown back in mirth, every wrinkle rendered with care. Beneath it read: Happy Birthday, Mr. Kingsley. May your days be filled with laughter. —Mari.

"Doesn't it capture me perfectly? Mari has an artist's eye!" Hamiltion boasted.

"Jareth, don't you agree? There's real artistry here," someone remarked.

Jareth's gaze softened at the thought of sweet Mari.

Glynnis' face hardened as if struck.

"While her technique is still developing, Mari undoubtedly has the makings of a great artist," Thaddeus noted.

"Mr. Kingsley, Mari dreams of attending art school," Evadne seized the moment. "Even Thaddeus recognizes her potential. With proper training, the Abernathys could have a celebrated artist in their midst within five years."

Thaddeus frowned, sensing manipulation.

"Do you and Elspeth pay no attention to Mari? Such talent deserves nurturing!" Hamiltion chided.

"Of course, you're right..." Frederic and Elspeth conceded through gritted teeth.

"I adore Mari's gift. Where is she?" Hamiltion asked warmly.

"She's resting upstairs but will join us later," Mr. Murray replied.

"Ah..." Hamiltion sighed. "Have this framed for my study. I want to admire it daily."

Glynnis' eyes flashed crimson with envy. She'd assumed Mari's limited funds would yield a pitiful gift—yet here was a handmade treasure, praised above her costly vase.

Just you wait, Mari.

Elsewhere, Acacia paced the hallway, frantic. "Elspeth, it backfired! Thaddeus and Evadne are closer than ever!"

"Patience," Elspeth purred, eyes glinting. "Our special guest arrives soon. I have plenty of ways to humiliate Evadne and tarnish her reputation."

The gift ceremony continued.

When Thaddeus presented the antique violin, the room buzzed with awe.

Hamiltion's collector friends swarmed for a closer look, but he clutched the case protectively. "Hands off! This is Thaddeus' gift to me!"

The crowd erupted in laughter, Evadne covering her smile.

"This piece was donated by Suri of K Group at a charity auction. Rare and exquisite—I'm glad it pleases you," Thaddeus explained.

"It must be from Chairman Emeric's private collection! His taste is unparalleled in Elmsworth!" Hamiltion marveled.

"Chairman Emeric would be honored by your appreciation," Cassius said smoothly, ever the diplomat.

"Mr. Kingsley, my gift for you!" Acacia's saccharine voice cut through.

All eyes turned—many laced with disdain. Hamiltion's indifference to her was no secret.

"Acacia went to great lengths," Frederic announced. "Knowing your love for classical art, she acquired an authentic masterpiece at auction."

"Oh? Authentic?" Hamiltion perked up.

Acacia's gloved attendant unrolled the painting with ceremony.

The collectors leaned in—only for Hamiltion's enthusiasm to dim. "Thank you," he said flatly.

Then, a murmur: "Is this... a forgery?"