Chapter 91
Chapter 91:
She shifted her gaze and added plainly, “Miss Olson, I think I’ll have the police inspect the entire house p>
Her voice was steady but left no room for argument. Isabella stepped back, rattled. Her hands moved nervously as she blurted, “How absurd! Why would I bug your house? That’s ridiculous p>
“If not that, then how else do you know what I do each day? Or are you simply spreading lies?” Rylie asked without changing her tone. “Seems like manners aren’t something your family passed down very well p>
Rylie had the final word, and Isabella stood humiliated. Had she chosen to escalate things, the Owen family could have easily crushed the Olsons without lifting a finger.
Sensing that the situation had spiraled out of control, Paola quickly stepped in. “Rylie, please don’t be upset. Isabella meant no harm. She only said those things out of worry for me.” Tears gathered in her eyes as her voice wavered, trying to appear pitiful.
“We’re one family, Paola. Have you forgotten that we share each other’s burdens?” Rylie’s lips pulled into a faint smile, though it lacked warmth. “And yet you let your friends shame our name. Do you want people to think the Owen family breeds idleness p>
The weight of the accusation hit Paola hard. She clenched her fists but couldn’t offer a single rebuttal. Her anger simmered, but all she could do was lower her gaze and mumble, “Fine, Rylie. I’ll remember this p>
Rylie turned from her and addressed the guests at the table with calm grace. “Please excuse the scene. I hope it hasn’t disrupted your evening p>
Her composure drew silent admiration. Many in the room, who had quietly dismissed her at first, now watched her more carefully.
The event was hosted by the Buckleys, known throughout the industry for their jewelry empire. This time, the auction aimed to help children living in poverty-stricken and isolated regions.
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As things settled down, Celia Buckley stepped onstage. She wore a pale gold gown that shimmered beneath the lights.
Her voice rang clear as she greeted the guests. “Thank you for joining us tonight. The Buckley family is honored by your presence at this charity gala.” She continued with poise after a brief pause, “Tonight’s auction features pieces from our personal collection. Twenty percent of the sales will go toward education and medical needs for children in less fortunate areas p>
Her words paused again as she surveyed the room. Her gaze swept across the first floor, then briefly stopped on one of the private viewing boxes above. “Of course, it’s not about the price of a bid. True charity lies in your intent. Whether the amount is high or low, every participant here is helping the children p>
Just as Celia delivered her remarks, Isabella, still seething over her earlier embarrassment, noticed something odd. Both Celia and Rylie wore nearly identical necklaces.
Isabella studied the necklace around Rylie’s neck, then turned her attention to the stage. Her earlier frustration gave way to sudden delight. “Doesn’t it look like Miss Owen’s necklace is exactly the same as Miss Buckley’s p>