Chapter 9

The New Year holiday brought a stream of visitors to the Gordons'. The estate was ablaze with lights and festive cheer.

In the living room, a circle of society ladies chatted, with her mother-in-law Aria playing the gracious hostess.

Evangeline's gaze landed on the familiar mother-daughter duo sitting beside Walter's mother Aria—Julia and her mother.

Lydia Carlson, Julia's mother, was all dolled up in a pink dress that still showed off her timeless grace, with bold and striking makeup. Julia was decked out in a fancy yellow gown so grand that everyone would think she was the bride at a wedding.

Julia fluttered around Aria like a butterfly, laying on the charm thick. "Mdm Gordon, it's been three whole years, and look at you—more gorgeous and youthful than ever. If we hit the town together, people will swear we're sisters."

Aria's smile was wide enough to light up the room, her eyes twinkling with fondness for Julia. "Oh, Julia, you've had it rough while you were away. It warms my h