The Billionaire's True Heiress From Fake Jewel to Real Crown novel Chapter 625

Octavia named a hotel—ironically, the same one where Claire’s disastrous coming-of-age party had been held.

Claire immediately felt a twinge of suspicion. Was Octavia deliberately picking that place, or had she simply not thought it through? Last time’s gala had ended in catastrophe; now they wanted to throw her another party in the exact same venue? Did they not worry about the inevitable whispers among the guests?

“I don’t think that’s a great idea,” Claire said flatly, not bothering to soften her tone.

Octavia faltered, momentarily at a loss for words. She should have known—no matter the occasion, Claire could always be counted on to get under her skin.

“Claire, you’ve earned the honor of being this city’s valedictorian. We’re genuinely happy for you; this party is just our way of expressing that.”

“It’s a sincere celebration, I promise.”

“And it’s not just for you. Cindy and Shirley are included as well.”

“We have three girls going off to college this year—your uncle is over the moon.”

Octavia knew Claire had a mountain of grievances against her, but perhaps not toward Latham. So, she made a point of roping him into the conversation, hoping that Claire might be more willing to agree if he was involved.

Of course, if Claire chose to refuse, that was fine as well. In fact, it might spare her the headache of dealing with Cindy’s inevitable mood swings.

Octavia was making the call right in front of Latham, partly as a performance for his benefit.

“I know Shirley did well, but didn't Cindy’s results fall short?” Claire interjected. “If we throw a joint party, aren’t we rubbing salt in her wounds?”

“You’re her mother—you wouldn’t want her to have a breakdown, would you?”

Octavia shot Latham a helpless look. “Latham, maybe you should talk to her.”

“She’s just worried about how Cindy will take it. She really doesn’t want to go through with this.”

Octavia took the opportunity to hand Latham the phone.

He was itching to tell her not to cling to such old-fashioned traditions—she was city valedictorian now; why keep dwelling on those dusty old family rituals?

But then he remembered what Octavia had told him: as soon as Claire returned to the James family estate, she’d been formally acknowledged as the next heiress. If he dismissed her traditions out of hand, he’d risk burning bridges with his adopted daughter.

“Then when are you having the party at home?” Latham asked after a pause. “We could all come down and join you.”

Claire hesitated just a moment. “The date isn’t set yet. And… are you sure you want to come? I worry people might start asking about Cindy.”

“She’s a bit fragile, and if she hears too much, she might take it to heart.”

“She’ll think everyone’s comparing her to me.”

Claire was intentionally using Cindy as a shield to dodge their plans.