Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 83

Vivica took a theatrical step back, feigning fear and confusion. “You’re scaring me, Sapphira. What on earth are you talking about?”

“You’re really so cruel that you’d let Larissa be humiliated in front of every major family in the city?” Sapphira hissed. “No matter what, she’s still your biological daughter!”

The last words were almost a sob.

At that, Vivica dropped the act, her face twisting into a sneer. “Biological daughter? She stopped being my daughter the moment she signed those papers. She’s your and Neville’s daughter now. You two had better keep her in line, or she’ll embarrass the entire Judson family right after arriving. If that happens, I doubt even Kiernan will tolerate her for long.”

With a triumphant smirk, she turned and rejoined her husband, Paxton.

Sapphira felt as if the strength had been drained from her body. She clutched Neville’s arm. “I have to find Larissa. I’ll have her change out of that dress…”

There might still be time. If she changed, no one would be caught up in the scandal of a real versus fake gown.

Neville grasped her hand and nodded firmly. “Go. I’ll handle things here.”

Exchanging polite greetings with passing guests, Sapphira hurried toward the east wing villa, pulling out her phone to dial Larissa’s number.

…

In the glittering ballroom, a crowd of impeccably dressed young men and women swarmed around Honora, showering her with praise.

“Wow, Honora, you look absolutely breathtaking tonight! I’m a woman, and even I’m captivated.”

“I’ve been eyeing this gown for ages, but I could never get my hands on it. So you were the one who snagged it!”

“Honestly, a dress like this could only look so perfect on you, Honora.”

“It’s just a desperate attempt to show off. She’s been poor for so long that the moment she strikes it rich, she wants the whole world to know she’s one of us now.”

“Heh, textbook new money.”

“Well, at least she’s a wealthy heiress now. No matter how plain she is, she won’t have trouble marrying into money.”

Honora sipped her wine, a small, knowing smile playing on her lips.

“What’s taking her so long to show up?” someone complained.

“Seriously, making all of us wait like she’s some big shot.”

Honora just smiled. “She is the guest of honor, after all. It’s only natural for her to make a grand entrance after all the guests have arrived.”