By the time I reached downstairs, I noticed Elena giving Tom and me a weird look. It seemed as if she was anticipating some drama.
Upon recalling Tom's words yesterday, I felt a sense of unease creeping in.
But then again, power struggles in wealthy families were nothing new. Even the eldest heir like Tom would have plenty of people secretly waiting to see him fail.
"Grace, come sit beside me," Rose called out warmly, snapping me out of my spiraling thoughts.
I quickly went over and took a seat beside her.
"I heard from Tom that you're a voice actor. That sounds like an interesting career…" Rose gently patted my hand with a smile.
Then, she removed her agate bangle and put it on my wrist. "I owe you one for saving my life. This was a symbol of love from my husband, and I'm passing it to you now as a token of gratitude. Please accept it…"
I hadn't expected her to offer such a valuable gift and instinctively tried to take it off. "Mrs. White Senior, I can't accept this. It's far too precious."
"Nonsense. Just keep it," Rose insisted while pressing my hand firmly to stop me.
I wanted to refuse again. This bangle wasn't just expensive but also carried deep sentimental value. With my fake identity, how could I accept something so meaningful?
While Rose tried to stop me from removing the bangle, I could only look at Tom pleadingly.
"Just keep it. It's a token of appreciation from my grandma. You wouldn't want to reject her goodwill, would you?"
I hadn't expected him to join in on this charade. But Rose, looking pleased, had already instructed the maids to serve breakfast. Since I had no choice, I accepted it with the intention of returning it to Tom later.
However, noticing Elena's increasingly radiant smile from the side, I couldn't shake off a growing sense of unease.
It felt like this bangle carried some deeper significance…
…
"I'm glad you like it," Yanice Ledger replied. Her gaze quickly shifted to Tom, who was sitting nearby.
Her eyes shimmered as though a soft, watery light danced within them. "Tom, it's been a while since we last met."
Tom raised an eyebrow and responded indifferently.
A flicker of embarrassment crossed Yanice's face, but she swiftly regained her composure. Her attention then fell on me. She feigned surprise, acting as if she had just noticed me. "Who might this be?"
In just one glance, I could tell she fancied Tom. After all, a look of affection was impossible to conceal.
Unfortunately, it seemed to be a case of unrequited affection.
"Hi, I'm Grace Summers," I said with a smile and nodded at her.
"Grace Summers?" Yanice frowned slightly. She immediately turned to Laurel with a puzzled expression. "Laurel, why does that name sound so familiar?"
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