She Left She Thrived She’s Worth Billions novel Chapter 160

“I’m sorry, Aunt Melanie, I didn’t mean to.”

Lila’s apology was swift. She then scurried to the other side of the room to grab a pastry, making it seem like she had indeed tripped Melanie by accident while reaching for a snack.

An innocent mistake.

Melanie picked up the scattered powder and paper, put them back in the box, and handed it to Nathaniel.

“Melanie, is your gift… white powder and slips of paper?” Evelyn asked in feigned astonishment, her tone dripping with ridicule.

Many of the guests had seen the contents of the box. Some wore strange expressions, while some of the older guests began pointing and muttering about Melanie.

“Nathaniel has really spoiled his eldest daughter. Giving her father white powder and white paper for his birthday?”

“So thoughtless. Who gives a bag of cheap white powder and scrap paper for a 60th birthday? Is this supposed to be a gift or an insult?”

Camilla couldn't help but roll her eyes and whisper to Gregory, “How did our Hale family end up with such a rebellious daughter-in-law? It’s so embarrassing.”

“That’s enough. Say one more word and you’ll regret it,” Gregory hissed, stopping Camilla from gossiping further.

Melanie was, after all, a Hale daughter-in-law. If she truly fell out of favor with Nathaniel, it wouldn’t benefit their family.

“Melanie is young. Young people aren't as hung up on traditions as we are,” Gregory said, and Sabrina immediately chimed in.

You’re right. Melanie certainly didn’t do it on purpose. She’s young and probably didn’t realize how inappropriate such a cheap-looking gift is for a milestone birthday. So, on behalf of my husband, I forgive her.”

As Sabrina spoke, she opened Melanie’s gift box and deliberately placed the white powder and paper next to Aria's Thangka.

The comparison made Melanie’s gift look even more pathetic and insulting.

Written clearly in black and white, it was indeed a formula.

However, the paper didn't specify what the formula was for.

Melanie was puzzled. How could the retired pharmacist know so much from just a single glance?

“Is this real?” Nathaniel asked, his eyes wide and unable to hide his delight.

Melanie nodded. “Yes, that is an improved powder formula specifically for treating soft rot in the Sunstone Orchid.”

As soon as she said this, a massive, excited smile spread across Nathaniel’s face.

Sabrina and Evelyn, who had been gloating moments before, were now dead silent, their faces flushed with humiliation and fury.