Chapter 520
It was a simple sentence, free of embellishment—much like Caitlin herself.
She was like a lily in clear water, beautiful without the need for adornment.
After speaking, Caitlin took Hannah’s arm and began to step down from the stage. Just then, Celia rose from her seat.
“Miss Gonzales, if you would, please wait p>
Every eye in the room turned toward Celia, confusion flickering across their faces.
What was she up to?
Everyone knew the Palmer family’s youngest daughter had a reputation for being difficult. Was there some unresolved grudge between her and Caitlin?
Guests who had already witnessed tensions between Caitlin and Celia looked almost gleeful.
Who doesn’t love a little drama?
Especially when it’s this juicy.
This was the Richards family, after all. Besides Celia, who else would dare stir up trouble for the Richards’ cherished princess, right in their own banquet hall?
“What do you think Celia’s planning this time p>
“Who knows, but you can bet it’s nothing good p>
“Place your bets—who comes out on top p>
“Hard to say. Miss Gonzales is no pushover, but Celia’s not exactly a saint. It’s obvious she came prepared. I think Miss Gonzales might be in for it tonight p>
“I can’t help myself I’m actually looking forward to this p>
Everyone was eager to see what Celia would do next.
And even more eager to see how Caitlin would respond.
“Honestly, I’m kind of excited too p>
“Go, Miss Gonzales! Don’t let Celia, that outsider, get the upper hand p>
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Hannah frowned, about to say something, but Caitlin smiled calmly. “It’s all right, Gran. I can handle this p>
With that, Caitlin turned to Celia, her tone composed. “May I ask what advice you have for me, Miss Celia p>
Celia smiled too, though her eyes stayed cool. “First, let me
congratulate you on rising from the ashes and finally ending eighteen years of hardship. And, I’ve prepared, a gift for you, Miss Gonzales p>
A gift?
The crowd froze.
So Celia wasn’t here to pick a fight with Caitlin after all?
She was here to give a gift?
This wasn’t what anyone expected.
What was going on? Had Celia suddenly turned over a new leaf?
“What’s Celia playing at this time p>
“I have a feeling this gift isn’t as simple as it seems p>
“Something’s off-this doesn’t feel right p>
Caitlin turned, meeting Celia’s gaze
with clear, unflinching eyes. “In that
case, thank you for your that
kindness
Miss Celia p>
“No,” Celia lifted a hand, her tone shifting, “don’t thank me just yet, Miss Gonzales. Hear me out first p>
A fresh round of whispers swept through the guests.
“Knew it-Celia would never be that generous p>
“What is she up to now p>
“I’m dying to know what this so-called gift is p>
Caitlin remained poised and unflustered. “All right, I’m listening p>
Celia spoke slowly, savoring every word. “The gift I’ve prepared is an antique music box piano from
Laurentia, crafted over a centurymet
ago-her name is ‘Vitality.’ Made entirely of pure gold and sapphires, she’s extraordinarily rare and was once auctioned for a seven-figure sum in euros Legend has it the music of Vitality brings prosperity and hope, and can even soothe restless souls into peaceful sleep p>