Ophelia Gets Thrown Out (Ophelia) novel Chapter 56

**Paths Lead To Purpose — Kevin Masters**
**Chapter 56**

Zoe beamed brightly, her enthusiasm infectious as she raised her voice just enough to gather everyone’s attention. “Everyone’s here to celebrate Grandpa’s birthday, and I trust you’ve all brought thoughtful gifts. How about we hold off on the meal until everyone has had a chance to present their offerings?”

Ophelia had already basked in the limelight for far too long. She had received the stunning emerald bracelet and a generous share of the family business. It was high time to reclaim the spotlight and ensure that Ophelia didn’t continue to dominate the festivities.

Tristan paused, considering Zoe’s words. He nodded slowly, a reluctant agreement forming on his lips. “Alright, fine. Let’s do it your way.”

For him, the day held a deeper significance beyond the birthday banquet. It was the perfect occasion to unveil Ophelia’s true identity to the family. He regarded the birthday celebration as merely a gesture of goodwill from everyone, so he acquiesced to the idea of receiving gifts first.

“Grandpa, please take a seat,” Zoe urged, stepping forward to assist Tristan into his chair with a gentle touch.

Once he was comfortably settled, she stepped back, her presence still radiating warmth.

“Scarlett, why don’t you go ahead and share your gift?” Zoe gestured encouragingly towards her sister.

“Dad, this is a special antique vase I managed to snag at the auction,” Scarlett began, her voice laced with pride. “Asher knew how much you liked it, so he insisted I get it for you.” She presented the vase, subtly highlighting Asher’s thoughtfulness in the process.

Tristan offered a simple nod, his expression neutral. “Nice.”

Scarlett felt a pang of disappointment at his lackluster reaction.

*Is it because Asher isn’t here this year?* she pondered, a frown creeping onto her face.

“Dad, what Henry and I brought isn’t as fancy as Asher’s,” Claire chimed in with a modest smile, handing over her own gift. “It’s an antique clock, though I know it doesn’t hold a candle to Asher’s.”

Henry’s family had always leaned on their association with Asher to stand up to Adrian, so they weren’t about to overshadow him on this occasion.

“As long as it’s from the heart, the price doesn’t matter,” Tristan replied, fully aware of the underlying motivations of both Asher and Henry. He had seen through their facade long ago, their intentions clear as day.

“Henry knew you’d say that,” Claire continued, her tone casual yet revealing. “He mentioned that the branch office has been swamped this year, so he couldn’t make it back today. He’ll bring you a gift when he returns in a few days.”

Tristan scoffed lightly, recognizing the subtle reminder. “Let him stay busy. I’d prefer the branch office to be as busy as the headquarters. At least that way, his efforts won’t go to waste.”

He had long come to the realization that Asher and Henry lacked the capabilities of Adrian. Secretly, he relished their absence, grateful for the peace it brought.

Claire’s face flickered with a hint of awkwardness. “Got it.”

After Scarlett and Claire presented their gifts, Adrian and Victoria stepped forward. “Dad, we also brought gifts, but we had Samuel send them directly to the manor,” Adrian explained, his tone careful.

They wished to avoid drawing attention to themselves, aware that their gifts were on the pricier side. They simply hoped Tristan would appreciate the gesture.

Tristan, noticing Adrian’s understanding of his preference for discretion, nodded approvingly. “Good, you’re thoughtful.”

Scarlett and Claire exchanged incredulous glances, rolling their eyes in unison.

*They haven’t even shown the gifts yet, and he’s already praising them for being considerate?* Scarlett thought, irritation bubbling beneath the surface.

Determined not to be outdone, Scarlett interjected, “Tristan, Bianca had to jet overseas for a shoot, so she couldn’t make it back. But she did select a gift for you, something she chose herself.” With that, Scarlett presented the carefully wrapped gift that Bianca had prepared.

Claire, unwilling to be overshadowed, added, “Tristan, Felicity’s caught up with a competition and couldn’t return either. But she also prepared a gift for you, along with a recorded video message.”

As Claire spoke, the large screen behind them flickered to life, displaying Felicity Rowle’s smiling face. “Grandpa, I’m so sorry I couldn’t be there for your birthday celebration…”

“Good. That’s thoughtful,” Tristan replied, his expression softening as he witnessed the effort from the younger generation.

Scarlett shot Claire a look of irritation, clearly displeased.

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