Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 261

Josette glared at her, her voice tight. “…Then I suppose I should thank you for your kindness.”

“No need,” Larissa said with a magnanimous smile. “We’re family, after all.”

She glanced at Jagger, who remained silent and aloof. “Aunt Josette, you’re about to kneel and apologize to me, and your husband hasn’t said a word to defend you.”

Jagger, now drawn into the conversation, stated coolly, “A bet is a bet. Josette lost, so she should apologize as promised.”

Though Josette knew her marriage to Jagger was one of convenience, devoid of deep affection, hearing him abandon her so publicly still felt like a knife to the heart.

“It seems your life in the Lincoln family isn’t as glamorous as you make it out to be, Aunt Josette,” Larissa said with a touch of pity.

She then turned her attention to Honora. “You should take a good look at your aunt’s situation, Honora. She married into a top-tier family, but it’s no guarantee of security. This could be your future, too.”

“Larissa, have you not said enough?” Josette snapped, her patience gone. She turned to her father. “Dad, I know she’s your precious granddaughter, but you have to control her at an event like this!”

Kiernan remained unmoved. “Josette, family honor is earned through strength and capability, not by quietly swallowing insults.”

Though his granddaughter’s words were sharp, Kiernan had noticed a shift in the room. The guests no longer regarded her with the doubt and disdain they had at her welcome banquet. Instead, he saw respect and admiration. She was earning her place in their world on her own terms.

“The engagement was our idea,” Vivica interjected. “As parents, we are naturally happy when we can arrange a good match for our daughter.”

“Oh, I see,” Larissa said, her eyes wide with mock realization. “So that must be why Honora told people that she was forced by you and Uncle Paxton to break off the engagement, and that it wasn’t what she truly wanted.”

Vivica frowned, looking at Honora in confusion. When had she ever said such a thing, and to whom?

Honora felt Vivica’s gaze on her and nervously pressed her lips together, but she offered no explanation.