Chapter 178
Nathan Blackwood was drowning in humiliation.
Julian Montgomery observed this with simmering jealousy. How could he possibly compete with such a formidable rival? All he could do was wait.
Wait with bated breath!
Reginald Blackwood's words moved Evelyn Carter deeply. Her long lashes fluttered as she whispered, "Grandfather..."
"Enough now. Leonard, it's your birthday today," Evelyn quickly interjected with a gentle smile. "Let's focus on happier matters. Why don't we see what gifts everyone has brought?"
"Excellent idea! Presents first!" Reginald rubbed his hands together like an excited child, his eyes twinkling with anticipation.
The elderly gentleman's childlike enthusiasm was utterly endearing.
Julian and other distinguished guests presented their offerings one by one. Reginald accepted each with gracious nods and warm smiles.
"Grandfather!"
Julian stepped forward with a perfect gentleman's bow, his charming smile radiant. "Since Nathan is my dearest friend, his grandfather is mine as well. May your health and happiness endure as long as the earth keeps turning!"
"What a fine young man. Thank you, my boy!" Reginald's grin stretched from ear to ear.
"Happy birthday, Grandfather!"
Cassandra Blackwood made her entrance with calculated shyness, strategically positioning herself beside Julian. "I know how much you adore antiques," she purred, deliberately leaning closer to Julian.
Julian didn't even glance her way as he smoothly stepped aside.
Cassandra wobbled precariously, nearly toppling over before regaining her balance.
Muffled laughter rippled through the crowd. The humiliation burned.
Cassandra's cheeks flamed as she fought back tears of rage, silently cursing every amused guest.
A servant presented her carefully selected 19th-century vase. Reginald nodded politely. "Lovely. Thank you, Cassandra."
Her lips curled in smug satisfaction - until Marcus Underwood approached carrying a rolled parchment tied with an elegant red ribbon.
"Mr. Blackwood, this is from Miss Eleanor."
"Eleanor's gift? Bring it here at once!"
Reginald unrolled the parchment and burst into delighted laughter. "Hah! Is this me? Magnificent! What extraordinary talent!"
The crowd pressed closer to see what had delighted the patriarch so.
Cassandra froze. Her moment had lasted precisely three seconds.
The detailed sketch captured Reginald's laughing visage with remarkable precision, every wrinkle lovingly rendered. In the corner, delicate script read: "Happy Birthday, Grandfather! May you laugh like this every day. Love, Eleanor."
"Look at Eleanor's masterpiece! The likeness is uncanny! Such remarkable talent!" Reginald boasted with grandfatherly pride.
Julian's expression softened at the thought of the sweet girl, his smile tender.
This expression made Cassandra's face harden, jealousy souring her stomach.
"While Eleanor is still developing her skills, she undoubtedly possesses remarkable artistic potential," Nathan remarked evenly.
"Grandfather, Eleanor has exceptional talent," Evelyn seized the opportunity. "She's dreamed of attending the Academy of Fine Arts. Even Nathan, who rarely praises anyone, acknowledges her gift. Imagine what she could achieve with proper training - in five years, she could bring great honor to our family."
Nathan's brow furrowed slightly. Was Evelyn implying he never gave compliments?
"What's this? Don't you care about your daughter's development?" Reginald's gaze grew distant, tinged with melancholy. "Eleanor isn't like other children. Given her... condition, she needs her parents' attention more than ever."