Beatrice's scolding only made Jane regret attending the banquet. She was already bored and tired of sitting in one place. The nagging woman's words weighed on her, making her contemplate leaving the event just to escape the relentless chastising.
However, before she could devise her escape plan, Florence approached once again, this time accompanied by a group of young women. Florence feigned as though she hadn't encountered Jane before, and with a radiant smile, she kissed Beatrice's cheeks.
"Mrs. Pansy, you look absolutely stunning. This must be Patrick's fiancee, right?" Florence shifted her attention to Jane, extending her hand. "Hi, I'm Florence Doyle. Nice to meet you, Jane."
Florence put on an act, radiating nobility and friendliness, and it would be impolite for Jane to ignore her. Jane couldn't refuse the handshake in this setting.
Seeing that Jane had accepted the handshake, Beatrice intervened, glaring at Jane. With a polite smile, she said, "Don't mind her, Florence. She's just a country bumpkin, so she's not familiar with proper etiquette."
"It's alright. I've heard Jane is quite talented. I noticed there's a piano on the stage. How about we have a friendly competition to liven up the atmosphere?" Florence suggested.
Jane's eyes narrowed as she fixed her gaze on Florence. People assumed she was a pauper from the slums, so she couldn't help but wonder where Florence got the idea that she was musically talented. It was evident that Florence intended to humiliate her.
Before Jane could respond, Florence headed straight for the piano. As a member of a prestigious family and Patrick's childhood sweetheart, Florence easily captivated everyone's attention.
With skillful grace, Florence performed a piece she was very familiar with. An eruption of applause and praise followed the conclusion of her performance. After stepping down from the stage with regal poise, Florence addressed Jane, "I wasn't giving it my all. Now, your turn, Jane. Let's see if you're up to the challenge."
Florence's friends began to taunt Jane. "You were outstanding up there, girl. Absolutely amazing!"
"Don't hesitate, Jane. Get up on that stage and show us what you've got! Or do you not know how to play the piano? That would be a real blow to Patrick if his fiancee couldn't even play a simple musical instrument."
The surrounding guests watched, and some already shook their heads in disappointment, casting aside Jane's reputation. Beatrice observed the unfolding scene and was mortified, causing her disdain for Jane to grow.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Unexpected Fiancée
Kindly update...
No updates...