Isabella's face stiffened instantly.
Hadn't they heard her sincere and earnest speech? Weren't they supposed to rush over, their hearts aching for her, and praise her for being the selfless, perfect daughter the family deserved?
Weren't they supposed to see the difference between her and Serena, to realize that she was the one who was truly fit for the title of Lancaster heiress, the daughter who would bring honor to the family?
Why... why was this completely different from what she had imagined?
Why were they all fawning over Serena, worrying about her? They were even willing to disregard etiquette and have the Blackwood family's kitchen cook for Serena?
Were they insane? This was the Blackwood estate!
Were they so biased toward Serena that they were willing to ignore the Lancaster family's reputation?
“Mom, Dad, there's no need to trouble them." Serena's red lips curved into a smile. "Nicholas prepared all of this for me himself... He even went as far as peeling the shrimp for me, ensuring everything was perfect."
As she spoke, she elegantly picked up a shrimp, her long eyes glancing sidelong at Isabella with a smile that was growing more dazzling and bold. "And he peeled these shrimp for me just now, one by one, with his own hands."
Serena's actions and gaze were completely undisguised. It was obvious who her words were aimed at.
And Isabella, indeed, reacted to Serena's words. Her eyes became bloodshot, and her face twisted for a moment. Though she tried to hide it, the jealousy in her exquisitely made-up eyes was practically overflowing.
What?
Who was Nicholas? He was a god-like figure, ethereal and untouchable. How could he possibly cook? And for Serena... for that kind of woman? And... and peel shrimp for her?
Meanwhile, she had never even received a glass of water from Nicholas!
While she was seething, Catherine and Edward's eyes lit up. They exchanged a look, both filled with satisfaction toward Nicholas.
Catherine nodded in approval. "I only mentioned in passing that you were busy at the research institute and would be rushing over for Briannas party. He knew you probably hadn't eaten and took it upon himself to prepare food for you. He's very thoughtful."
Moreover, everything he had prepared was something Serena loved. It was a clear sign of Nicholas's attentiveness.
Edward also showed a look of approval. "He's willing to set aside his status to cook and knows how to take care of someone. Not bad."
A man who could cook was definitely a plus, especially a man of Nicholas's background cooking for their daughter. They were naturally pleased.
Hearing her parents praise Nicholas so highly, acting as if he were truly worthy of
their daughter, Isabella felt a wave of jealousy rush to her head.
If they were so satisfied with
Nicholas, why hadn't they helped create opportunities for her and Nicholas before? And besides... before both of them had disapproved of the engagement between Nicholas and Serena. Now they had changed their minds. What about her? Did this mean she didn't have a chance anymore?
At that moment, Serena seemed to do it on purpose, raising an eyebrow and giving her a lazy glance. A playful, mocking smile touched her lips filled with undisgorsed provocation.
She asked directly, "Isabella~ Are you angry hearing that Nicholas cooked for me
and even peeled my shrimp?"