Stone was conversing with the wives of affluent families while Elisa stood beside her mother, wearing a polite smile. She felt as though her face might go stiff from maintaining the grin.
When she spotted her two friends approaching, a wave of relief washed over her; finally, her mother would be distracted. Serenity and Jasmine greeted the other ladies first.
“Seren, you arrived just in time. Hurry and take Elisa away—I can’t stand her annoyed expression any longer. My palm is itching!” Mrs. Stone chuckled and encouraged her niece to take her daughter away to ease her irritation.
Mrs. Marshall remarked, “Elisa is truly showing her personality. I appreciate this side of her. It’s unfortunate my son is already married; otherwise, we could have been in-laws.”
“Jules, quit complimenting her. She doesn’t deserve praise; it will only inflate her ego,” another lady chimed in.
Mrs. Lewis smiled as well. “Ms. Stone is a lovely young lady, after all.” She had a good relationship with the York family and had not interacted much with Mrs. Stone previously. Moreover, she had never targeted Elisa because Elisa’s affections were directed toward Zachary.
Tania turned to Mrs. Stone and said, “Audrey, if you don’t want Elisa, I’d gladly take her as my daughter. I’m going a bit crazy wanting a daughter, but my wish has yet to be fulfilled.”
Elisa proudly declared, “Mom, look at how popular your daughter is!” Before her mother could respond, she swiftly left the gathering with her two friends.
These women were among the most sophisticated wives in Wiltspoon’s elite circle, all of a similar age. They had outgrown discussions about jewelry and skincare; their primary topic of conversation was their children’s marriages.
Elisa dreaded that the conversation might soon turn to introducing potential boyfriends for her. Consequently, she made a hasty escape.
“Although Serenity and Elisa are cousins, they’re…
“Closer than biological sisters,” Mrs. Marshall praised them. “Jasmine too. I never imagined she would become Mrs. Bucham’s future daughter-in-law.” Mrs. Stone spotted Mrs. Bucham in the crowd. When Mrs. Bucham glanced over, they exchanged smiles. Mrs. Stone remarked, “Jasmine is a wonderful child as well. My niece has been friends with her for many years. She has strong values, and I really like that girl.” Josh had quickly taken Jasmine under his wing.