Ophelia Gets Thrown Out (Ophelia) novel Chapter 51

**Paths Lead To Purpose — Kevin Masters**

**Chapter 51**

Zoe’s eyes sparkled with disbelief, a glimmer of hope illuminating her expression. “Ophelia, you’re genuinely willing to let me borrow it?” she asked, her voice barely concealing her excitement.

“Just ensure you’ve thought it through carefully,” Ophelia replied, her tone cool and detached, as if the matter were of little consequence to her.

“Yeah, it’s not like I have any other options at this point,” Zoe said, attempting to sound modest, but internally, she was soaring. ‘See? In the end, you had no choice but to lend them to me,’ she thought triumphantly. ‘Tonight, I’m going to show everyone what a true Rowle heiress embodies.’

“If you’re certain, then go ahead and pick one out,” Ophelia said, not even glancing in Zoe’s direction, her indifference palpable.

“Thank you, Ophelia,” Zoe chirped, stepping eagerly into the room, her heart racing at the thought of selecting the jewelry.

The dressing table was adorned with several exquisite sets, each more dazzling than the last. Without a moment’s hesitation, Zoe reached for one, as if she had contemplated this decision for ages.

Ophelia raised an eyebrow, her gaze scrutinizing Zoe. “Have you really decided that quickly?”

A flicker of embarrassment crossed Zoe’s features. “Uh, yeah, I just picked one at random. After all, it’s just a temporary loan from you. I truly appreciate it.”

Ophelia nodded, her expression tinged with feigned sincerity. “Zoe, your taste is something else. Just a random pick, and you end up with the most luxurious and exquisite set.”

“Huh?” Zoe’s complexion drained of color. Panic surged within her. “I-I didn’t realize. I’m so sorry, Ophelia. I’ll choose another set.”

“There’s no need for that,” Ophelia replied, her voice steady. “If you’ve chosen it, then it’s this one.”

“Is that really alright?” Zoe asked, her unease evident.

Victoria, who had been observing the exchange, hesitated before speaking. “Ophelia, why don’t you select a set for Zoe instead?”

She hadn’t anticipated Zoe would gravitate toward the most lavish choice on her first attempt.

“It’s perfectly fine, Mom. I’ve already coordinated it. I won’t be using this set,” Ophelia assured her mother, her tone calm.

“Oh, that’s a relief,” Victoria said, her shoulders relaxing slightly.

“Thanks a lot, Ophelia,” Zoe said, her voice obedient yet her grip on the jewelry box tightened, a lingering fear that Ophelia might change her mind and reclaim it.

Ophelia barely acknowledged her, her attention shifting toward Victoria, her expression softening just a fraction. “Mom, you should start preparing. It’s almost time.”

“Alright,” Victoria replied with a faint smile. “Once you’re ready, we’ll head out together.”

“Okay,” Ophelia nodded, her demeanor composed.

“Zoe, let’s go,” Victoria called out, beckoning her.

As Ophelia watched Victoria lead Zoe and Chloe away, a shadow of coldness darkened her eyes.

‘She brought this upon herself. There’s no saving her now,’ Ophelia mused, her thoughts chilling.

At Wanshine Hotel, the neon lights flickered vibrantly, casting a dazzling glow over the bustling entrance where a steady stream of cars flowed like a river.

Tristan’s grand birthday celebration was in full swing, with the political and business elite of Dunhollow arriving in droves to extend their congratulations.

Although the official start time hadn’t yet arrived, many guests had already arrived early, eager to partake in the festivities.

The Rowle family’s reception team was bustling about, ensuring everything was perfectly in place.

The hall buzzed with an electric energy, laughter and chatter filling the air.

“Hey, have you heard the latest?”

“They say the true heiress of the Rowle family has been discovered, and she’s going to reveal her identity during Mr. Rowle’s 70th birthday celebration.”

“Everyone already knew that. They say the Rowle family truly cherishes their real daughter.”

“Cherish all they want, but she was raised in an ordinary household. Her manners and upbringing just don’t measure up. What a pity.”

“Hi, Scarlett, Claire,” Zoe greeted warmly, her heart lifting at the familiar faces.

The two women halted in front of her, casting glances behind. “You came alone?”

“My parents and Ophelia are just a little behind. They’ll be here shortly,” Zoe replied, her tone light.

“Oh, your parents really shouldn’t have let you come by yourself,” Scarlett Rowle remarked, a hint of discontent in her voice. “Even if they’ve found their true daughter, you’re the one they raised. How could they neglect you?”

“Don’t worry, Scarlett,” Zoe reassured her gently. “Ophelia just returned. There are many things she’s still unfamiliar with. It’s only natural for Mom and Dad to be more concerned about her.”

Claire Rowle sighed, “At a time like this, you’re still so naive. Don’t you realize that being too kind only makes you vulnerable to being taken advantage of?”

Zoe smiled faintly, “No, Claire. I’m doing just fine. My parents treat me well.”

“Look at Zoe, so mature, beautiful, graceful, and talented. This is exactly how a Rowle heiress should be,” Claire praised, admiration shining in her eyes.

“Exactly,” Scarlett agreed. “Even though they’ve found their biological daughter, keeping you within the Rowle family was their wisest decision.”

Hearing their words, others quickly chimed in. “Yes, that’s true. The Rowle heiress should be someone just like Zoe.”

“True, the real heiress probably can’t even compare. After all, good breeding and manners aren’t things every family can teach. What could a humble household possibly produce?”

“Right? Even the Rowle family’s first and second branches aren’t satisfied with her. They keep praising Zoe instead.”

“So it seems the real heiress isn’t worth much hope after all.”

As Zoe absorbed their dismissive attitudes, a barely perceptible smirk tugged at the corners of her lips.

“Scarlett, Claire, Ophelia isn’t so bad, actually. When she arrives, I’ll bring her over to introduce you,” Zoe said, her tone obedient.

“I’d rather not,” Claire replied, her voice cool, just as Adrian and Victoria entered the room, flanking a girl who instantly captured every gaze in the hall.