Awakened Housewife Ignore Betrayer's Begs (Scarlett) novel Chapter 584

Lucy didn't hesitate. "Vincent, I'm telling you now—I'm not okay with this."

Vincent went quiet. His gaze darkened as it settled on her, the weight of it pressing down, trying to push her into submission.

But Lucy held her ground. "If you want me to marry Harris," she said firmly, "you'll have to do it over my dead body."

Vincent turned on his heel and walked away, frustration clear in his stride.

Lucy hurried after him. "Vincent, wait—I still have something to ask you."

He stopped and glanced back. "What?"

She grabbed his arm, like she was afraid he'd take off again. "Where's Scarlett?"

He said, "She's resting at Ravenshade Villa."

He didn't mention Scarlett's condition. Didn't explain.

Lucy pressed. "Is she free anytime soon? I have a few things I wanted to ask her."

Vincent shook his head. "She's pretty busy right now."

Lucy's face fell. "Oh. It's been a while since I've seen her."

Before she could say more, Luke appeared out of nowhere, his tone dripping with disdain. "Why would you want to see her?"

Lucy frowned. "She's still our sister-in-law."

Luke shot her a look. "If she actually thought of herself that way, she would've shown up today instead of pulling some disappearing act."

Lucy didn't back down. "You don't exactly come around much either."

Luke's face flushed with anger. "Lucy, you—"

She cut him off. "I don't want to fight with you, Luke. If you don't see her as family, that's your choice. But I do. She's the only sister-in-law I've got."

Luke rolled his eyes so hard it was almost theatrical. "You're insane."

He walked off without another word.

Near the entrance, Daniel was helping Madeline inside, guiding her slowly.

Amanda spotted them and hurried over. "Madeline, you're feeling better?"

Madeline smiled warmly and placed a hand over Amanda's. "Much better, thank you."

Amanda shook her head. "You didn't have to come all the way out here. I hate to trouble you like this."

Everyone turned.

It was Ruth, dressed impeccably—elegant, expensive, and polished. In fact, she looked more like the birthday girl than Amanda did.

A few guests who knew the history exchanged knowing glances. Whispers rippled through the crowd.

But with so many people watching, Amanda couldn't afford to be cold. She plastered on a bright smile and walked over. "Ruth, don't be silly. You're right on time. Come in, come in."

When she reached Ruth, Amanda even reached out and took her hand. From a distance, they looked like old friends.

But up close, Amanda's voice dropped to a tight whisper. "Were you even invited? What are you doing here?"

Ruth's smile didn't waver. "What, not welcome? Should I leave?"

She made a move to go, and Amanda quickly tightened her grip. "Don't be ridiculous. You're here now—come sit."

Watching Amanda force that smile, clearly biting back her real feelings, Ruth felt a deep sense of satisfaction.

She handed over her gift. "Happy birthday. Just a little something."

Amanda took the box, her smile still fixed in place. "Oh, you really shouldn't have. Your presence is more than enough."