Chapter 500

Sophia Laurent had just stepped across the threshold of Valdemar Manor when Patriarch Valdemar beckoned to her.

"Sophia, come here."

The elderly man wore a benevolent smile.

"This is Vanessa Valdemar, the youngest daughter of the Valdemar family."

"Vanessa, meet your sister-in-law Sophia Laurent."

Sophia gave a slight nod, her lips curving into a perfectly composed smile.

The living room held more than just Vanessa. Alexander Valdemar, Adrian Valdemar, and the disinherited Julian Valdemar were all present.

Adrian lounged lazily on the sofa, only lifting his eyelids briefly in greeting.

Julian appeared visibly disheveled, his shirt wrinkled and his gaze unfocused.

Alexander remained characteristically taciturn.

But Sophia could sense he seemed more at ease among family.

Vanessa clung affectionately to Patriarch Valdemar's arm.

"Hello, sister-in-law."

She tilted her head, eyes sparkling.

"Shouldn't you prepare a gift for your new little sister?"

Sophia blinked in surprise.

Then smiled gently.

"I came in a hurry today. May I give you something later?"

Vanessa immediately brightened.

"Really? Can I ask for anything I want?"

Adrian suddenly slammed his palm against the coffee table.

"Vanessa, have you lost your mind?"

Patriarch Valdemar frowned sharply. "Adrian!"

"Did you hear what she just said?"

Adrian mimicked Vanessa's tone with exaggerated disgust.

"Ugh—"

He made a gagging expression.

"Only you would indulge this nonsense."

Sophia instinctively moved closer to Alexander.

Patriarch Valdemar's beard quivered with anger.

"You insolent—"

Adrian shrugged indifferently.

"Perhaps you should ask who taught her such manners."

"She's your sister. Must you always provoke her?"

Adrian sneered and turned away.

The atmosphere turned icy.

Patriarch Valdemar gave Sophia an apologetic look.

"Don't mind him, Sophia."

She offered a gracious smile.

"I understand, Grandfather."

Vanessa suddenly stamped her foot.

Her eyes reddened as she bit her lip in distress.