The Hidden Empress Stripping Her Secrets After Divorce novel Chapter 517

She was looking for Genevieve. Three years ago, when Leon first brought her to meet his mother, Genevieve had been sitting on the sofa with her legs crossed. Holding a cup of tea, the woman hadn't even bothered to look up.

"So, you're the dancer?"

Lyra had smiled and nodded politely. "Hello, Mrs. Astor."

Genevieve set down her teacup, giving her a disdainful once-over before a mocking smirk touched her lips. "You certainly have the looks. But do you know what families like ours value the most?"

Lyra shook her head.

Genevieve stood up, walking over to her and dropping her voice low. "Lineage. You're just a dancer, with no background and no family standing. Did you actually think Leon would marry you? Keep dreaming."

Lyra's face had gone pale. Genevieve stepped back, her voice returning to a normal volume. "Alright, the tea has been poured. We won't keep you for dinner. Leon, see her out."

On the way back that day, Leon didn't say a word, and neither did Lyra. She had merely clutched her purse strap, her knuckles turning white in a suffocating wave of humiliation.

Today, she was here.

Across the hall, Genevieve stood by a pillar, accompanied by a young woman in a light purple dress. The woman kept her head bowed, looking incredibly timid. Genevieve gripped her hand, keeping her voice low.

"Elaine, I'm going to take you to meet The Duke soon. Remember to smile, be gentle, and be obedient."

Elaine's fingers tightened her grip on her skirt. "Genevieve, I... I'm scared."

Genevieve patted her hand. "Don't be afraid. You're beautiful; he's absolutely going to like you."

Lyra passed by with her tray, slowing her steps. Catching the mention of 'The Duke', her heart skipped a beat. She pretended to adjust the champagne flutes on her tray, straining her ears to listen.

Genevieve continued, "I don't know what's keeping Leon tonight, he's still not here. We aren't waiting for him anymore; we'll do this ourselves."

Elaine's voice grew even quieter. "Genevieve, what if The Duke doesn't want me..."

Genevieve cut her off. "That won't happen. Just listen to me." She paused. "I've already had the drug slipped into his drink. It'll be delivered to him shortly. You just stand close by, and once he drinks it, go over and support him."

Lyra's grip suddenly tightened. Drugging? Drugging The Duke? The corners of her mouth slowly curled upward.