"This is Seraphina's home, which means it is your home too. Please don't be formal with us, understand?"
Seraphina Rhodes was the name she had been given at birth.
Hazel vastly preferred the name her real family gave her over the one forced upon her by those abusive monsters in the countryside.
Even though Ivy had helped her legally change her name later on.
She still had the surname Sawyer.
Now, she was shedding her past completely. From today onward, she would take her biological parents' name.
She was Seraphina Rhodes.
Ivy thought Mrs. Rhodes was incredibly kind. Despite her undeniable wealth and aristocratic aura, she had a very gentle, welcoming presence.
Her voice was soothing and warm.
Ivy was genuinely thrilled that her sister had such wonderful parents.
She nodded quickly in response.
The distinguished-looking man beside her also spoke up.
"I'm Seraphina's father. From now on, treat this place as your own. Seraphina mentioned that Gemma has been unwell? Come inside and rest. Don't stand out here in the wind."
Ivy politely thanked Mr. Rhodes and helped Gemma inside.
The interior was sprawling and bright, with staff bustling about quietly.
The estate was a masterpiece of heritage architecture, blending modern luxury with sweeping courtyards and intricate landscaping that left Ivy—who had seen her fair share of wealth—completely awestruck.
Her sister's family wasn't just rich.
They were astronomically wealthy and had exquisite taste.
As they followed the older couple through an open-air corridor, passing tranquil koi ponds and elegant pavilions, Ivy felt like she had stepped onto a movie set.
Gemma was equally stunned, tugging on Ivy's sleeve and whispering,
"Ivy, her family is unimaginably rich."
Ivy agreed.
It seemed there were truly many wealthy people in this world.
The man she married, Alaric, and now her sister's family.
They all belonged to the upper echelon of society, impeccably dressed and poised no matter the occasion.
Even in the comfort of their own home, they looked flawless.
"That's wonderful. Girls should enjoy their youth, travel, and experience the world. There's no need to rush into marriage and tie yourself down too early."
"Let's relax here for a bit. We'll have some tea and chat while we wait for Seraphina's eldest brother to get home, then we'll have dinner."
Listening to the older woman's advice, Ivy felt a pang of shame.
If she hadn't been backed into a corner, she never would have forced Alaric to marry her.
But she didn't regret marrying him.
At the very least, she had secured the money needed to save Gemma's life.
The group sat together, making pleasant conversation.
When Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes stepped away for a moment, Ivy pulled Seraphina aside and whispered,
"Why wouldn't you let me tell them I'm married?"
Seraphina sat close to her and whispered back,
"If people find out you married a divorced older man who already has a kid, they'll look down on you."
"Ivy, just pretend to be single for now, please? Consider it a favor to me."

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