The One He Dismissed Became The One He Died For novel Chapter 205

Miles froze, his hand tightening around her slender waist. He kept his voice low.

"Are you unwell? I'm taking you home."

Claire pressed her hand over his and shook her head, forcing her tone to stay light. "I'm fine. Just a little shaken up from the fender bender. It's nothing serious."

She managed a faint smile, looping her arm through his and leaning heavily against him. "Come on, introduce me to your relatives."

They turned toward the closest elder.

Claire forced a warm smile, her voice gentle. "You must be Agatha. Miles talks about you all the time. He told me you doted on him the most when he was little."

"I brought a small gift for you. I embroidered it myself."

Betty pulled a gift box from her bag and handed it to Claire.

"It's a cashmere shawl with artisanal silk embroidery. This pale lilac color will look stunning on you."

The older woman accepted it, her eyes lighting up the moment her fingers brushed the fabric. "Such a soft material, and the stitching is exquisite! Oh, you sweet girl, this is incredibly thoughtful."

Claire took another embroidered box and turned to the aunt standing next to her.

Miles didn't even recognize half of the extended family members present, yet Claire effortlessly greeted them by name, handing out perfectly tailored gifts.

Miles took the heavy bag from Betty and followed quietly behind his wife. His lips pressed into a thin line as he watched her navigate the sea of strangers with flawless grace.

By the time they finished the rounds, the entire family was thoroughly charmed by Claire. They thanked Alistair profusely, singing her praises.

Alistair beamed with pride. "You're all too kind. The child picked these out for you, so please, enjoy them."

Yvonne clenched her fists, raising her voice in fury.

"Are you all bought off by a few cheap trinkets?"

"Have you forgotten the disgusting stunt she pulled at the Silver Jubilee Gala?"

The relatives, all happily clutching their gifts, immediately looked offended.

Claire shot Yvonne a calm glance before speaking with poised elegance.

"These small gifts are simply a token of my respect as a junior meeting my elders for the first time."

"Is this how I raised you? Running your mouth like a fool! Get out and stand vigil in the Ancestral Hall!"

In all his years navigating the family and the ruthless business world, Victor had never suffered such public humiliation.

He masked the venom in his eyes and looked at Claire, offering a sickly fake apology. "I'm sorry, Claire."

Claire offered a sweet smile. "Don't mention it, Victor. We're all family."

"Alright, alright, enough shouting. Everyone, take your seats," Alistair commanded.

Claire sat beside Miles, a flawless smile plastered on her face, hiding every trace of discomfort.

Beneath the table, she subtly straightened her injured left leg, desperate to ease the throbbing, dull ache radiating from the wound.

Miles naturally placed a piece of BBQ rib onto her plate.

Then he picked up a few shrimp, meticulously peeling off the shells before dropping them into her bowl. He lowered his voice, coaxing her like a child.

"Eat this, and no more alcohol tonight. You'll break out in hives."