The Day I Stopped Waiting Was the Day He Started Begging novel Chapter 47

Vivienne greeted the Yates family elders with perfect poise and even presented York's grandfather with a stunning antique painting.

The old man was absolutely thrilled. After the group finished dining, the grandfather excused himself, preferring not to meddle in the younger generation's affairs, and went upstairs alone.

Everyone gathered in the spacious living room.

Vivienne and Madeline discussed her artwork, and Vivienne was incredibly surprised to find that Madeline was intimately familiar with all of her pieces, especially their profound underlying themes.

She felt like she had finally found a kindred spirit.

"Madeline, I didn't expect a fashion editor to have such a deep and profound understanding of art."

"I studied it a bit in the past. Just scratching the surface, really."

Madeline skillfully brewed tea using the exquisite set on the table. Her movements were graceful, looking as if she had stepped straight out of a classical painting.

"You're far too modest. I've hosted so many exhibitions over the years, and very few people have truly understood my work."

Vivienne's eyes lit up as she accepted the tea and inhaled its rich aroma.

"Madeline, your tea smells absolutely incredible."

"By the way, I'm hosting an exhibition here in the city soon. I'd love to invite you and Prosecutor Yates. Would you be free?"

Flattered, Madeline felt the lingering gloom in her chest dissipate, her mood lifting significantly.

"If I have the time, I'd absolutely love to go."

The two chatted effortlessly, ignoring everyone else, as if sealed inside a vacuum no one else could pierce.

York leaned back on the sofa, playing with a silver lighter in his hand, listening to Madeline speak in her measured, rhythmic tone.

Madeline possessed an inherent intellectual charm. Unsurprisingly, true artists were drawn to her.

Felicity's smile stiffened. She lowered her gaze, hiding the bitter reluctance and flash of pure jealousy in her eyes.

She picked up her cup and took a small sip.

"We really are blessed by your presence today, Ms. Vance. Madeline rarely brews tea for us when she's here at the Manor."

Vivienne didn't respond immediately, leisurely sipping her tea as the smile in her eyes cooled slightly.

"It sounds like there's a hidden meaning in your words, Felicity."

Though she strongly disliked socializing, Vivienne wasn't oblivious to social dynamics. She could easily read the toxic intentions people harbored.

"Ms. Vance, you misunderstand. I was just making a casual observation," Felicity pushed the fruit platter forward, feigning total innocence.

"Actually, it's no wonder you and Madeline hit it off so perfectly. You're practically kindred spirits, suffering from the exact same misfortune."