Chapter 21
Chapter 21
The Leach family buzzed with anticipation as Oliver called for everyone’s attention in the living room. “Let’s make Cherise feel welcome,” he said, his voice warm and inviting
Yves, always eager to be the life of the party, spoke up first. “Hey,Cherise, it’s Yves! We met in Yasvissa. You’re even more beautiful up close,” he said, blushing and scratching his head. Cherise offered a smile that could warm any heart, captivating everyone in the room for a moment.
Sean chuckled at Yves, “Easy now, you little rascal” Then, turning to Cherise, he asked, “Cherise, do you still remember me?”
Sean, once graceful, now limped. Cherise’s brow creased as memories surfaced of him taking her to the amusement park and giving her presents when her parents were busy.
It had been ages since their last meeting, back when he didn’t yet have a family of his own, and the fact that he was now missing a leg made the change quite shocking “Sean, it’s been so long” Cherise said gently, her worry clear. “How are you coping?”
“I’m managing well, Cherise,” Sean assured her, his pride evident. And let me introduce you to my wife, Heather, your aunt.”
“Hello, Heather Cherise acknowledged Heather with a warm smile, noting the complementary grace between Heather’s soft elegance and Sean’s refined presence. “Cherise, you’re even more glowing than Yves painted you to be Heather complimented, her respect evident. “You’re truly stunning.
“Thank you, Heather, Cherise replied, then stepped over to hug Evelyn, who was standing nearby with tears welling up in her eyes.
“Evelyn, I’m back, Cherise whispered, her voice filled with emotion.
Evelyn, overcome with emotion, could only manage a nod as tears flowed freely down her cheeks.
Cherise remembered the tender care Evelyn had given her during childhood sicknesses, and she recognized who her true family was
Surveying her family-her grandfather in a wheelchair, one uncle with a missing leg, and the loss of the other uncle- Cherise was hit with a mix of feelings.
A firm resolve flashed in her eyes, unnoticed amidst the gathering.
The moment was interrupted by Mandy’s shrill voice. “Cherise is here! I was so busy with Shirley’s piano practice for her big competition that I missed your arrival”
Everyone’s attention shifted to Mandy as she walked in with Shirley, one loaded with makeup, the other dripping with jewels.
“Is this Cherise?” Mandy questioned, scrutinizing Cherise’s tall figure with a tinge of doubt.
Cherise turned to face them, leaving Mandy and Shirley briefly shocked.
Mandy’s eyes flickered with malice, quickly masked. She simmered with resentment, thinking, ‘Claire’s daughter takes after her, all sultry charm, and Cherise outshines her mother in that department Shirley, her hands balled into fists, was overflowing with jealous How can a girl from a tiny town look so gorgeous? One day. I’ll ruin that face; she vowed to herself.
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Mandy, sensing Shirley’s agitation, gently patted her hand to calm her.
“Cherise, you’ve turned out so elegant. It’s impressive. The folks in Betrico will be envious of the Leach family, having two such beautiful young ladies,” Mandy said, her grin as insincere at was broad. “Have we met before?” Cherise asked, her voice even.
Mandy was caught off guard. “Absolutely, when your father welcomed me into the Leach family, you were still living in Betrico.”
“Yes, Cherise, I brought you many gifts when I became part of the family,” Shirley chimed in, her tone sweet.
“I don’t remember that, Cherise responded, her gaze sharp as it locked with Shirley’s.
Shirley, caught off guard by Cherise’s cold gaze, yelped and nearly lost her balance, but Mandy steadied her in time.
Murmurs of confusion rippled through the room.
“Do I frighten you?” Cherise questioned, moving closer to Shirley “What has you so jittery?”
“No, not at all. I just thought I saw a mouse, Shirley replied, her voice shaky, trying to hide her unease.
Inside, Shirley seethed. A girl from the backwoods got to me with a glance? Maybe I’m just tired from all the piano practice. But I won’t forget this, Cherise, just wait and see.”