Chapter 62
Finnian’s charm wasn’t just about his tall, commanding presence or his innate air of sophistication. It was his perfectly sculpted features that really caught the eye.
Even if he wasn’t in a position of power, Finnian’s striking looks could make waves anywhere. Elowen had never seen anyone quite so handsome, and she was immediately captivated.
“You just arrived. Have a cup of coffee with us,” she offered, her voice suddenly softer.
Elowen went to pour a cup, but instead of handing it to Finnian, she daringly brought it to his lips right in front of Amara.
Amara’s expression soured, and Finnian’s face darkened as he took the cup himself. “I can manage on my own,” he said.
He didn’t even spare Elowen a glance, placing the untouched cup on the nearby side table. Yet, Elowen’s eyes never left his face.
While Elowen might not have the makings of a star, she was definitely the cutest in her circle, especially with the stark contrast of the “grotesque” Amara beside her. She was confident in her appeal.
Finnian’s initial coldness didn’t deter Elowen; instead, a self–assured smile tugged at her lips.
Just then, Larry entered the room. In his early fifties, he had a robust build and wore a crisp blue suit. His demeanor was serious and carried the weight of authority.
Amara’s fists clenched as she spotted him, a wave of resentment washing over her. She masked her feelings well, however, and alongside Finnian, she approached Larry to wish him a happy birthday.
Larry gave Finnian a once–over and nodded approvingly before leading the way into the dining room, with Amara and the others following suit.
The Sullivan Group, a company dealing in home goods, held a mid–tier status among the elite circles of Wye. They were a couple of rungs below the Everly family, so even without the pretense of marriage for convenience, Amara and Finnian weren’t exactly a match made in heaven.
Larry was aware of Finnian’s three–year absence from home and knew that this high–profile son–in–law offered little benefit to their business. As such, he treated Finnian lukewarmly, like any other son–in–law.
Fiona, a woman known for her social finesse, led the group to their seats in the spacious dining room. She quickly called for the meal to begin and raised her glass in a toast.
As dinner commenced, Amara placed a shrimp on Finnian’s plate and flashed him a smile.
Though her face was partially hidden behind a mask, Finnian could discern her smile. A warm, inexplicable feeling surfaced within him, prompting him to return the gesture, and he even cracked open a crab for her.
Larry witnessed this exchange and nodded silently, approvingly.
“Dad, there’s something I’d like to discuss,” Amara said suddenly.
Larry’s earlier satisfaction was evident, but Elowen’s expression was less than pleased. Unperturbed, Amara continued, “Dad, we should consider finding a match for Elowen.”
Fiona’s smile faltered slightly at this, though she didn’t let it slip entirely. Instead, with a half–smirk, she remarked, “As the younger sister, Ama, you’ve been always looking out for Elowen over the years. It’s touching to see such concern from younger sister.”
In the Sullivan family, hierarchy was strict. Traditionally, a younger sister suggesting a match for her elder sibling was against protocol, as it disrupted the order.
Fiona’s veiled critique made Larry frown.
Amara, seemingly oblivious to the tension, slightly lowered her mask and took a bite of the crab meat Finnian
1/2
14:01
Chapter 62
had prepared for her. With an air of nonchalance, she added, “Dad, Mrs. Sullivan, I’m not bringing this up out of nowhere. Earlier, Elowen pointed at me and called me ugly.”
