Queen of Wild Cards novel Chapter 289

Wilfred suddenly narrowed his eyes. "Hold on. You two aren't pulling a fast one on me, are you? If you're married, why didn't I get an invitation? Where was the wedding? You're not just staging this to get me off your backs, right?"

Before Julius could defend himself, a familiar voice cut in. "Grandpa, she really is his wife. It's not a scam, I swear. They got the papers signed quietly. The actual wedding ceremony just hasn't happened yet."

Stella immediately recognized the voice—Jason Blackwood swaggered up to the table.

So Wilfred Vaughn really was the patriarch of Julius's maternal family.

Wilfred's booming laughter returned. "Fantastic! A delayed wedding is perfectly fine. But Julius, you better spare no expense when you do throw it. I won't have you mistreating my Little Star."

Little Star?

Since when were his grandfather and his wife on such affectionate terms?

How far back did their connection go?

"Grandpa, how exactly do you know Stella?" Julius asked, utterly lost.

"This brilliant girl saved my life, and I owe her a massive debt. But hey, since you're my grandson, I'm transferring that debt to you! You can pay her back for me. Hahaha! What a spectacularly wonderful day!"

Stella was momentarily speechless, the sheer absurdity of the situation leaving her entirely out of her depth.

The coincidences were frankly bordering on ridiculous.

She quickly pivoted. "Wilfred, I brought you a gift."

"I'll grab it," Julius volunteered.

He had checked it at the front door earlier, assuming it was meant for a completely different party.

Right on cue, the heavy mahogany doors swung open, revealing a breathtakingly elegant older woman accompanied by an effortlessly chic younger lady.

Stella deduced immediately that this must be Julius's grandmother and Aunt Yvette.

Jason, ever the charismatic flatterer, bounded over to them before they even reached the table. "Grandma! Aunt Yvette! You finally made it! You both look absolutely devastating tonight. Grandma, you are pure royalty, and Aunt Yvette, you belong on a runway."

He played the charming grandson perfectly, buttering them both up without playing favorites.

Stella had to admit, their fashion sense was immaculate.

The grandmother wore a deep burgundy gown—a rich, commanding shade that spoke of old money and timeless grace. Paired with a stunning string of South Sea pearls, she commanded the room with quiet, undeniable power.

Aunt Yvette, tall and remarkably slender, donned a sophisticated apricot slip dress that hugged her curves flawlessly, exuding an air of effortless high-fashion glamour.