Chapter 138

Adriel's POV

"Emily…" I heard Grandmother Grace's voice answer me with disgust laced in her voice.

The woman, Emily, exuded an air of confidence and authority as she descended the stairs. Her dark hair cascaded down her back, and her eyes held a sharpness that seemed to cut through the tension in the room.

My uncle's lips curled into a faint smile. "Emily, always the one to ask the bold questions," he remarked. First, we must welcome our guests properly."

He turned his attention back to me, his expression softening slightly. "Welcome, Adriel. Your father would be proud to see the man you've become."

I extended my hand, my uncertainty momentarily forgotten. "Thank you, Uncle. It's an honor to finally meet you."

He clasped my hand firmly, his grip strong and reassuring. "The honor is mine. Now, allow me to introduce you properly." He gestured to the woman beside him. "Adriel, this is Emily, your stepmother or father's concubine… anyone you feel comfortable with."

I nodded in acknowledgm