Because they were afraid of the embarrassment!
Isabella’s face was etched with worry, but her eyes held the glint of someone enjoying a good show.
She had no idea…
The Lancaster family hadn’t moved a muscle entirely because Serena had told them before the party that she didn't want to be the center of attention.
Standing with them would inevitably lead to too much speculation from the outside world.
Their precious girl had made a request, and of course, they had to honor it.
But the main reason was…
Their darling girl would never be taken advantage of. If there was even a hint of her being at a disadvantage, they would have already charged into battle.
Of course, they had already secretly made a mental note of the two socialites. Julian Lancaster was already investigating their families, looking for any weaknesses to exploit.
By the time the party was over, those two families would be bankrupt.
Their darling didn't want them to protect her openly, but that didn't mean they couldn't protect her from the shadows, right?
Meanwhile, the two socialites saw that all eyes were now on them.
Things had escalated to this point. Surely Patton couldn't continue to protect his little mistress in front of so many people, could he?
Did he have no shame?
If this blew up in front of the Blackwood family, even if he was Old Mr. Blackwood’s long-time butler, his position would be on the line if his abuse of power became public!
And she couldn't even demand an explanation from the stupid bumpkin?
The second socialite pointed a shaking finger at Patton. “Patton, your favoritism is disgustingly obvious. And you want us to apologize to her? Are you trying to make sure everyone knows about your inappropriate relationship? If the Blackwood family finds out you’re abusing your position for your little mistress…”
“Ms. Winslow!” Patton’s voice suddenly turned sharp, his eyes cold. “Watch your words! Miss Lancaster is the Blackwood family’s most esteemed guest. Apologize to her at once!”
The two socialites flinched, their faces alternating between pale and flushed. Their lips trembled, but they didn't dare say another word.
However, there was no way they were going to apologize to a country girl from the slums. Absolutely not!
Hailey saw the situation taking a nosedive. This damn old man was dead set on protecting Serena.
She tightened her fingers, her gaze suddenly landing on the main stage. Her eyes lit up as an idea struck her. In a pinched, nasally voice, she said, “Since Patton says Miss Lancaster is so distinguished and esteemed enough to be Mr. Blackwood’s guest, surely she must be incredibly talented? Isabella just finished her piano performance. Why don’t you, our esteemed guest, go on stage and show us what you can do? Let us broaden our horizons.”

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