Ophelia Gets Thrown Out (Ophelia) novel Chapter 57

**Paths Lead To Purpose — Kevin Masters**

**Chapter 57**

Ophelia’s face lit up with a warm smile as she began to speak, her voice gentle and soothing. “I heard from my parents that you’ve been having trouble sleeping and often suffer from headaches.” Her eyes sparkled with concern as she continued, “So, I made this special fragrance blend using traditional medicine. If you light it by your bedside before sleep, it’ll help you relax and ease your headaches.”

She understood all too well that Tristan’s restless nights and persistent headaches were manifestations of the profound grief he had carried since the loss of his beloved wife. It weighed heavily on him, and she wanted to offer a sliver of relief. With great care, she had selected rare herbs for this fragrance, not only to address his symptoms but also to ensure it was simple to use. This blend was particularly effective for stress-related headaches, something she hoped would bring him comfort.

Before Tristan could muster a response, a voice, laced with scorn, sliced through the air, chilling the moment. “Please, if you can’t afford a real gift, just say so. No need to dress it up as something valuable.”

Everyone in the room turned to see a young woman striding toward them, her luxurious evening gown flowing elegantly around her. In her hand, she clutched a box, her confidence radiating like a beacon.

“Grandpa, sorry I’m late,” she said, her tone deceptively sweet.

Without a hint of hesitation, she pushed Ophelia’s fragrance box aside with a dismissive flick of her wrist. “This cheap thing doesn’t belong here. Grandpa, let’s take a look at my gift.”

“Daphne.” Scarlett’s voice rose slightly, a blend of reprimand and concern as she noticed her daughter’s rudeness. “Speak politely. Ophelia’s just returned to the Rowle family. The important thing is the thought behind the gift, not the price.”

Daphne Rowle rolled her eyes, her sarcasm dripping like venom. “Well, Grandpa deserves better than this. I’ve never seen such a cheap gift at any of your birthday celebrations.”

With a self-satisfied smirk, she turned back to Tristan, clearly expecting praise. “Grandpa, I came late just for this gift. You’ll love it.”

As she opened the box, a set of premium painting tools was revealed, gleaming with potential. Their quality was undeniable, and the value was immediately apparent. Knowing Tristan’s passion for painting, Daphne had spared no expense in procuring this exquisite set.

Ophelia’s gaze flicked upward, recognizing Daphne instantly. As Asher’s second daughter, Daphne possessed intelligence, yet her spoiled and entitled demeanor often made her unbearable.

With a flourish, Daphne presented her gift, then shot Ophelia a challenging glare, as if daring her to respond.

Ophelia found the display childish but chose not to engage in the provocation.

When Daphne noticed Ophelia’s calm demeanor, her frustration boiled over. “What’s your problem?” she demanded, unable to mask her irritation.

Ophelia, maintaining her composure, replied coolly, “Scarlett was right earlier. When giving a birthday gift, the sentiment matters more than the price.”

Daphne’s expression hardened, her hostility palpable. “What’s the matter with you? Can’t you tell when someone’s being polite?”

In her mind, Daphne scoffed, ‘Typical. So naive. She took it all seriously.’

Ophelia smiled slightly, her eyes twinkling. “I think it makes perfect sense,” she said, turning toward Scarlett. “So, Scarlett doesn’t actually believe that, does she? It was just a polite gesture, right?”

Scarlett’s expression stiffened, caught in a web of her own making. She found herself between a rock and a hard place, unable to respond without exacerbating the tension.

If she sided with Ophelia, it would mean admitting to her own hypocrisy. If she argued, she would undermine her daughter, a precarious balance to maintain.

With a sharp glance at Ophelia, Scarlett finally spoke, her voice strained. “Well… It’s Tristan’s birthday, so if he likes it, that’s what matters.”

She turned to Daphne, feigning a reprimand. “Daphne, just focus on giving your own gift. Whatever anyone else gives doesn’t matter. It’s about the thought behind it.”

Ophelia’s lips curled into a knowing smile, recognizing Scarlett’s cleverness. She was pretending to scold Daphne while subtly dismissing Ophelia’s gift as insignificant.

Daphne, clearly attuned to the underlying tension, shot Ophelia a resentful look before regaining her composure.

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