Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 22

“Larissa!” Vivica cried out in desperation.

Larissa didn’t even spare her a glance. “You’re getting loud, Aunt Vivica,” she said, her tone dripping with impatience.

The name “Aunt Vivica” struck Vivica like a physical blow, leaving her breathless and fuming.

Kiernan’s voice was stern. “Enough. The girl has made her position clear. She will not be returning to you.”

Hearing Larissa’s definitive answer, Sapphira finally let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.

Neville patted her hand gently. “I told you not to worry,” he whispered with a smile. “She adores you.”

Sapphira gave a weak, relieved laugh. She couldn’t help it; she wanted nothing more than for Larissa to officially become her daughter.

Just then, Honora, who had been silent all this time, spoke up. “Grandpa, now that Larissa is back, shouldn’t we throw a grand welcome party for her?”

Everyone stared at her in shock. For Honora to suggest a welcome party for Larissa was unthinkable. It would mean announcing to all of high society that she, Honora, was a fraud.

“I was thinking we should make it a magnificent event,” Honora explained, her expression earnest. “I want everyone in Regal City to know that my sister is the one and only true heir of the Judson family.”

Kiernan’s expression softened slightly. “That’s very thoughtful of you.”

Honora turned to Larissa, her eyes filled with hopeful sincerity. “I truly want you to accept me. The only reason I don’t want to leave the Judson family is because I can’t bear to part with my parents and brothers. I don’t care about the title of Miss Judson. And that’s the same reason they don’t want me to leave.”

Vivica’s voice was thick with emotion. “Oh, Honora, you’re so mature it breaks my heart.”

Larissa watched their touching mother-daughter performance with a smirk.

Just as Larissa was about to leave with Sapphira and Neville, Leopold’s cold, hard voice stopped her. He and Honora walked up to her.

“You see that?” he said, gesturing to Honora.

Larissa glanced up, then nodded. “Oh, I see you two. A couple of dogs yapping at my feet.”

What Leopold had intended to say was: “See? Honora is so kind and gracious. Even after you treated her so horribly, she still thinks of you.”

But Larissa had just called him and Honora dogs.

His icy composure shattered, and fury colored his cheeks. “Larissa! How dare you speak like that!”