Chapter 124

Some guests hesitated to cross Damien Harrington.

Others saw this as the perfect opportunity to align themselves with the prestigious Lancaster and Hartwell families.

The Hartwell family had faced financial struggles in recent years. Meanwhile, the Lancasters and Hartwells enjoyed Damien's powerful backing. The choice was obvious.

Roland Royce left after apologizing to Owen Hartwell.

Camille Hartwell and Talia Hartwell initially paid no attention.

But as more guests arrived only to depart quickly, and with dinner service about to begin, the banquet hall grew increasingly empty. Rows of vacant seats finally alerted them that something was wrong.

Frowning, Camille and Talia approached. "Why are so many guests leaving? What's happening?"

Owen and Marianne exchanged uneasy glances.

There was no choice but to tell the truth.

Owen explained, "The Lancasters have relocated to Lucerne and are hosting a housewarming party today. They've personally invited most of our guests, so..."

This explained the rapidly emptying venue.

As he spoke, Owen and Marianne watched Camille with concern.

They worried this might overwhelm her.

After everything the Lancasters had done to the Hartwell family, forgiveness seemed impossible. As long as Audrey remained in the nursing home, the grudge would persist.

It was understandable that Camille would despise them even more after this birthday sabotage.

But Camille was made of stronger stuff.

Upon hearing the news, her fingers merely tightened on the table's edge. Then her gaze turned icy as she stated bluntly, "That Harrington heir is behind this, isn't he?"

How else could the Lancasters, newcomers to Lucerne, attract so many guests?

Certainly not on their own merits.

"Yes..." Marianne lowered her eyes, tears forming. "I'm sorry, Grandmother."

"This isn't your fault."

Camille gently cupped Marianne's face. "You were too trusting to anticipate their cruelty."

"Grandmother—"

"It's fine."

Camille surveyed the nearly empty banquet hall. With so few remaining guests, the space looked desolate. She remarked calmly, "It's just a birthday. Having you all safe and happy is gift enough."

"Never let someone else's malice become your burden, understand?"

Her words carried unspoken echoes of Audrey's tragedy.

Immediately, Marianne and Owen responded, "We understand."

Marianne had invited Gabriel Ashcroft and Elise Ellis.

They arrived just then.

Both knew the bitter history between the families.

Upon hearing what happened, Elise cursed, "Disgusting! I've never met people so shameless!"

Gabriel gave Marianne's shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

Moments later, his phone buzzed. Reading the message, he paused before saying, "I'll bring in some reinforcements."

Marianne blinked. "What?"

Gabriel smiled mysteriously. "You'll see."

Meanwhile, at the Lancaster residence's banquet hall...