Ophelia Gets Thrown Out (Ophelia) novel Chapter 76

Chapter 76

Chapter 76

“That’s not what I meant at all,” Dylan clarified quickly. “With the longstanding arrangement between our family and the Caldwells, and given how Grandpa and our parents feel, I just thought if you’re truly not interested in Alaric, perhaps meeting others might help manage expectations at home.”

Understanding washed over Ophelia. He wasn’t pushing an agenda but genuinely considering her perspective.

A wave of gratitude warmed her heart. They truly accepted her as family.

“Dylan, don’t worry,” she reassured him softly. “I’ll be starting university soon. Opportunities to cross paths with Alaric will be few and far between. I’m sure our parents will understand in time.”

Her disinterest in Alaric naturally extended to anyone else for the time being.

A gentle smile touched Dylan’s lips. “Just focus on what you want. Whatever you decide, I’ll support you.”

“Thank you,” she said, her smile genuine. The feeling of having family in her corner was still wonderfully new.

“Let me show you to your seat. I need to prepare backstage, but I’ll find you right after my performance,” he said, guiding her through the venue.

“Take your time. I’ll be perfectly fine,” she assured him with a smile, her calm demeanor reflecting her comfort in such settings.

With an affectionate smile, he gave her hair a quick, brotherly ruffle before heading backstage.

Alone now, Ophelia surveyed the elegant surroundings.

“The decor strikes just the right tone for the event’s purpose,” she observed quietly to herself.

“Spare us the amateur critique,” came a scornful voice nearby.

Ophelia turned to see a young woman in a pale pink gown, her pretty features hardened by a disdainful expression.

It was Daphne.

“Daphne?” Ophelia hadn’t anticipated encountering her here.

“Why did Uncle Adrian send you? Zoe always represented the family before. Have you ever even been to an event like this?” Daphne’s tone was dripping with sarcasm.

She added, “This isn’t like Grandpa’s birthday party. There’s no one here to coddle you. Try not to embarrass Uncle Adrian.”

“Save your concern for yourself,” Ophelia retorted coolly. “Making a scene like this is far more embarrassing, don’t you think?”

Daphne’s face paled with anger. “We’ll see if that sharp tongue of yours can save you by the end of the night,” she hissed through clenched teeth before turning away.

“Shhh.” Ophelia shot Daphne a warning look, her voice dropping to a hushed tone. “Just play the part. Don’t ruin the image, especially when you’re dressed like this.”

Daphne’s attire that day perfectly embodied a soft, princess-like aesthetic, an illusion she could almost maintain, provided she stayed quiet.

The pointed remark made Daphne’s face flush with anger, her composure visibly wavering.

However, aware of the lingering glances from others nearby, she forced herself to swallow her pride. Through gritted teeth, she muttered, “This isn’t over, Ophelia.”

With a huff, Daphne stalked off under Ophelia’s amused gaze.

‘Where does she get this confidence from?’ Ophelia wondered, shrugging in mild disbelief.

The brief disturbance failed to draw much attention as the venue quickly settled back into expectant silence. “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to our annual charity gala… The host’s voice signaled the official start of the Successfully unlocked!

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Chapter 76

evening’s program.

Performance followed performance in smooth succession, building momentum toward the night’s climax.

“And now for our traditional finale…” the host announced as an attendant carried a velvet-lined box onto the

stage.

Curious, Ophelia leaned toward Dylan and asked, “What’s this about? Some sort of prize draw?”

Having assumed it was a standard charity event, she hadn’t bothered studying the schedule.

Dylan, who had joined her after his own performance, explained, “It’s a talent showcase for the young ladies present. They receive a certificate of participation.”

“So the box determines who performs?” Ophelia quickly grasped its purpose.

It was not a lottery for prizes, but for performers.

“Exactly.” Dylan smiled approvingly at her quick comprehension.

“How unusual for a charity event,” she remarked, interest piqued.

“The Dunhollow Chamber runs this differently from other galas,” Dylan explained. “The funds support various community projects rather than specific causes.”

“I see,” Ophelia nodded, her gaze already fixed on the stage as she wondered who would be selected.

As she scanned the room, she noticed Daphne casting a triumphant glance her way. The smug look made her

uneasy.

Before she could ponder further, the host’s voice rang out clearly.

“Ophelia Rowle!” the host announced, then raised his voice enthusiastically, “Please join us for our Stage of Kindness finale!!”

Dylan stiffened beside her. “That’s not right,” he muttered. “Participants are always pre-arranged.”

Since the performance would take place in front of a large audience, those interested typically coordinated with the Chamber beforehand to prepare properly.

“What’s going on this year?” Dylan frowned, sensing something amiss.

But Ophelia had already connected the dots. Her eyes shifted back to Daphne, who was now watching her with unconcealed satisfaction, mouthing the words, “A little surprise for you.”

A faint, scornful smile touched Ophelia’s lips as she murmured in response, “How childish.”

The moment her name was called, she knew Daphne must have manipulated the draw.

But Daphne was naive to think a stunt like this could ever unsettle her.

“Ms. Ophelia Rowle, are you ready?” the host’s voice rang out once more.

“I am.” Ophelia rose gracefully, acknowledging the host with a slight nod.

Dylan leaned closer, his voice laced with concern. “Are you sure about this? You haven’t prepared anything.”

A confident smile touched her lips. “I’ll be fine.”

Reassured by her composure, he asked, “What will you perform?”

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