Twin Cupids at Work Daddy Come Home novel Chapter 652

Sam didn’t bother saying anything else. He turned his back on her and walked away with Brendan.

Brendan cocked an eyebrow. “Sam… she’s really not the real Madeline?”

“She’s not.”

“So this party’s about to get interesting again?” Brendan said with a quiet laugh. “Can’t wait to see how this unfolds.”

Sam gave a sharp grin. “You got it.”

Claire stood where she was, still shaken by what Sam had said. The words echoed in her mind, a chill crawling up her spine.

Damn it. Carter was still radio silent. The uncertainty twisted in her chest, making her uneasy.

“Miss, Shelly is at the door.”

Claire took a steadying breath, forcing her nerves down as she looked at the servant.

Pulling herself together, she straightened her posture and strode out to meet Shelly.

Shelly was just getting out of the car when Claire stepped outside. Without missing a beat, Claire slipped her arm through Shelly’s, smiling brightly. “Mom, you’re finally here! I’ve been waiting forever. I almost thought you weren’t coming.”

Shelly lifted a brow, her smile distant and cool. “It’s an important day. Of course, I’m here.”

“Let’s head in, Mom. Everyone’s already arrived—they’re all waiting for you.”

Shelly glanced at Claire’s arm wrapped around hers, but she didn’t say anything. She just walked straight inside.

Tonight, Shelly wore a simple dress. Nothing flashy, but it looked elegant and perfectly fitting for such an event.

Claire, however, chose a bold silver-gray strapless gown. Layers of shimmering tulle sprinkled with stars and feathered details made her look like a storybook princess. Her makeup and hair were impeccable, accentuating her flawless features. It was clear she was set to outshine every socialite in the room.

Tonight, Claire was a vision.

After the humiliation of her last dress fiasco, she was determined to win back her dignity.

As she entered with Shelly, every eye in the room swung their way. Compliments and flattery followed them wherever they walked.

“I wonder if that imposter is here tonight. If so, things are about to get really interesting.”

Just then, the doors to the banquet hall opened quietly. Julian walked in carrying Madeline. He set her down with care and took her hand, their fingers intertwining.

“We’re here.”

“Yeah,” Madeline said softly. She’d heard Shelly’s voice from the hallway and knew it was time.

Everyone else was still focused on the stage, oblivious to the new arrivals. Only Shelly noticed her true daughter right away.

“Madeline, would you like to come up?” Shelly called out gently, her tone finally softening.

Madeline’s lips curled into the smallest smile as she heard her mother’s voice.

Claire was already beaming, picking up her skirt as she hurried up to the stage.

Without even looking at her, Shelly cut in, her voice turning icy. “I wasn’t talking to you.”