Under the Veil I Rule novel Chapter 272

Dorian wrapped an arm around Elysia's waist as they headed inside, leaving Amara to continue welcoming the guests. She glanced at their retreating figures and then turned her attention back to her duties.

"Oh, Elowen! There you are! I was wondering where you'd disappeared to."

The voice arrived before its owner—a woman in her twenties, donning a champagne-colored gown, swept over and linked arms with Elowen.

She was striking enough, with makeup applied a bit too heavily, and carried an air of superiority. Standing next to Elowen, they looked like they could be sisters, as if they were meant to stand side by side.

Amara's expression soured the moment she spotted the woman, and she quickly turned away, hoping to avoid her.

"Well, if it isn't Ms. Sullivan," the woman said, her voice dripping with fake cordiality, as she made her way over to Amara. She waved exaggeratedly, forcing Amara to acknowledge her.

Her eyes flitted over Amara, landing with disdain on the mask covering her face. "Still wearing the mask, huh? Even at your father's celebration? Don't you think that's a bit rude, not showing your face?"

Her tone was theatrical, clearly designed to provoke, and Amara's gaze sharpened. "Amelia Abbott, are you looking for trouble?"

Amelia seemed taken aback for a moment before arching an eyebrow. "Well, look at that. The shrinking violet's finally grown a spine. Who would've thought?"

Amelia was the eldest daughter of the Abbott family and Elowen's closest friend. Back when Amara lived with the Sullivan family, the two had often teamed up to make her life miserable, and Amara had not forgotten any of it.

Elowen sidled up to Amelia, covering her mouth as she giggled. "Amelia, why bother? Have you forgotten what Amara looks like? That face could frighten the guests more than a mask ever could."

"Ha, you're right about that," Amelia laughed, her eyes filled with contempt as she joined Elowen in mocking Amara. The nearby guests, catching wind of the exchange, paused to watch, smirking at Amara's expense.

Amara's fists clenched slowly at her sides.

Amara knew Elowen had a point. Larry cherished his reputation above all else. If she created a scene at his birthday party, he'd never forgive her.

Yet, she wasn't entirely without options in the face of their taunting.

Amelia's eyes flared with anger. "Amara, what are you implying?"

"Exactly what it sounds like."

"You're threatening me?" Amelia's initial panic was quickly replaced by a steely calm.