“Dane,” Kristine greeted with a beaming smile.


    Dane gave her a quick look, nodded briefly, and then headed straight for Madisyn.


    Madisyn was in the midst of guests when she caught sight of a somewhat familiar man approaching.


    His polite smile shifted to one that was genuinely warm, his eyes shining with happiness and kindness.


    “Madisyn,” he called out.


    Glenn looked on, startled.


    “Dane, you’re back?”


    “Of course, I had to return for Madisyn’s wee banquet,” Dane answered, presenting Madisyn with the gift.novelbin


    “Here’s something for you.


    Hope you like it.


    ”


    Madisyn was surprised that Dane had brought such avish gift to their first meeting-a Pauc bracelet worth a fortune.


    “Thank you, Dane.


    I absolutely love it,” Madisyn eximed, slipping on the bracelet there and then.


    Dane’s smile grew wider.


    Upon seeing Madisyn, he knew instantly she was his sister, a perfect reflection of their parents’ finest traits, both in her beauty and grace.


    He wished to continue talking with her, but the guests needed their attention.


    They decided to resume their conversationter.


    Meanwhile, Kristine was in shock.


    She hadn’t anticipated that Dane would give the gift she coveted to Madisyn.


    Tears welled up in her eyes as she bowed her head.


    “Kristine, don’t be upset,” one of her friends consoled her, understanding her feelings.


    “It’s her wee party, so it’s natural she’d receive gifts.


    Maybe Dane has something different for you.


    He’s always looked out for you.


    ”


    “Yes, but it bothers me that Madisyn is getting all the attention.


    It seems our parents, and perhaps soon our brothers, will only notice her,” Kristine murmured, her voice filled with worry.


    Her statement hinted that Madisyn might be courting everyone’s favor.


    Her friends felt outraged on her behalf, and one of them reassured her, “This will pass.


    Once everyone sees what’s really going on, they’ll know you’re the one who truly stands out! That woman from the countryside is just full of tricks.


    ”


    “Exactly.


    And don’t forget, you’re set to marry into the Klein family, right? Surely, being Mrs.


    Klein is better than any position in the Johns family.


    ”


    Spotting Andrew’s arrival, one friend nudged Kristine, saying, “Look, Andrew’s here.


    Why don’t you greet him?”


    Kristine noticed Andrew too, a figure of radiance and distinction even in a crowded ce.


    Her eyes shone with admiration as she started towards him.


    However, before she could reach him, Andrew approached Madisyn and presented her with a gift.


    Their conversation flowed easily, warm and harmonious.