Everyone nodded. Sophia was right. No matter how much they knew her, they would send invitations to her if they were holding parties.
That was basic courtesy!
But Molly didn't invite Sophia, which meant that she was rude, or that she couldn't tolerate Sophia.
Sophia didn't need to attend the banquet today. She could even refuse to let Drake come. Yet they both came. That was enough to display her generosity.
In comparison, Molly looked stingy.
Seeing the situation, the Old Stein admitted that Sophia was at an advantage. But Molly was young, and at least she could learn something today.
Temporary loss was no big deal.
The Old Stein came over and said apologetically, "Mrs. Riley, it is indeed our fault not having sent the invitation to you. We're sorry." Then he said to the servant, "Bring over the present for Mrs. Riley!"
Sophia watched them, wondering what tricks they would play.
The Old Stein took the present and put it in Sophia's hand. "This is an object used by the Queen in the Middle Ages. It may not be worth much, but it is a way of showing our sincere apology. Please accept it, Mrs. Riley."
The Old Stein was indeed shrewd.
His action eased up the atmosphere of the banquet hall greatly.
But Sophia didn't accept it. "Mr. Stein, this courtesy is unnecessary. I won't take your gift. No need to be polite to me."
No one expected Sophia to reject the Old Stein. They thought that they could have a show to watch.
"Mrs. Riley, don't you like my present?"
"It's worthless. I have thrown countless of them when I was young."
Sophia meant it. Although the Stein family was influential in Sealand, compared to the Lawson family in Pinkerton, it had a long way to go towards being as powerful and wealthy as the Lawson family.
"It's my fault. Mrs. Riley, you can choose whatever you like."
Sophia said ironically. "Mr. Stein, just save it."
The Old Stein looked at his granddaughter. "Molly, apologize to Mrs. Riley."
Molly looked at him incredulously, "Grandpa, why should I..."
Before she finished speaking, she noticed the look in the eyes of the Old Stein.
Molly wasn't happy. Today was important to her. Why should she yield to Sophia?
She wouldn't apologize, absolutely not!
Sophia smiled lightly. "Mr. Stein, since Molly doesn't want to apologize, don't force her."
"Molly!"
The Old Stein's face became serious.
Molly was upset. Her grandpa had never treated her like this. Why was he siding with Sophia now?
But she could see that if she didn't apologize today, her grandpa would be even angrier.
Molly was in a dilemma. She even hoped that Drake, who had been silent, would speak for her.
Everyone was waiting for Drake to speak. After all, the thing was related to him. People all wanted to know what he thought.
Drake held Sophia in his arms and said, "I came here today just to tell everyone that Sophia and I are a whole. I didn't expect that some people would not take my wife seriously."
"If you don't take my wife seriously, it means you don't take me seriously. Since the Stein family doesn't welcome us, I don't see any reason for us to stay."
"Honey, are you tired? I'll take you back! "
Sophia had a bright smile on her face. "Okay, honey."
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