Holding a flute of champagne, Isabella glided through the crowd like a peacock flaunting its plumage.
"Oh my god, Isabella, that dress is absolutely breathtaking!"
"Wait... is that The Astral Symphony? The crown jewel of YB Atelier? I thought they swore never to sell or loan it out to anyone!"
"Isabella, you are incredible! The Vinton family must have pulled off a miracle to get this for you. If you're wearing something this spectacular, does that mean you're the main event tonight..."
"What do you mean 'does that mean'? Just look at her! Isabella is obviously the star of the show!"
The guests swarmed her, their eyes wide with envy as they admired the magnificent masterpiece they usually only dreamed of seeing in magazines.
It was the legendary creation of YB Atelier, after all.
Who wouldn't be completely mesmerized?
Who wouldn't be obsessed?
Isabella's heart soared with vanity, though she maintained a demure, modest smile, gently waving off the compliments while still pretending to hype up Serena's big night.
A short distance away, Silas and Douglas watched her prancing around. Both men frowned in unison. "What exactly does Isabella think she's doing?"
Silas's brow furrowed sharply. "Tonight is Serena's night. This is her debut. Why is she dressed like a walking chandelier? Is she trying to upstage her?"
"Who even authorized that dress?"
Silas's expression darkened. "I'm going to have security make her change."
"Let it go, Silas," Douglas drawled, swirling the vintage red wine in his glass. He watched Isabella's desperate clown act with a mockingly cold smirk. "Let her put on her little show."
"Our niece hasn't given the order yet."
He paused, a predatory, amused glint in his eyes. "Besides... I have a feeling we're in for quite the performance tonight."
Silas let out a heavy, displeased scoff. "Then keep an eye on her. If she pulls
anything that ruins Serena's night, lock her in the basement immediately!"
Douglas downed the rest of his wine, flashing a dangerously charming smile. "Don't worry. No one is ruining my niece's party."
As the brothers spoke.
Across the lawn, Isabella noticed her two uncles staring at her.
Silas's expression was downright murderous.
Calculating her next move, she lifted her chin and gracefully approached them.
"Uncle Silas, Uncle Douglas."
Her voice was painfully sweet, her face a mask of utter innocence. "Serena isn't here yet, so I wanted to help entertain the guests so no one
feels neglected. I have le a few
friends here tonight. When she arrives, I'd love to introduce her around and help her buile her social network."
She played the part to perfection.
She consistently maintained her supportive facade in front of the entire party.
Silas gave her a freezing glare, his voice dripping with ice. "Just behave yourself."
Having said his piece, he couldn't be bothered to entertain her any further.
He checked his watch. "Where is Serena?"
Douglas set his empty glass on a passing tray. "I called the house.
She's not there and the stuse et
team
said she hasn't shown up forchair and makeup yet." fo FindNovel.net
Silas was just pulling out his phone to call Serena.
When Kiera Montrose, supported by a maid, approached them. "Our girl said she
had to go pick up a few friends. She'll be here soon."
Kiera looked incredibly vibrant tonight, dressed in a deeply elegant, crimson evening
gown that radiated quiet authority.
She chuckled warmly. "This is the
first time she's brought friends home When they get here, we need to show them true Vinton hospitality."
Silas and Douglas nodded instantly. "Don't worry, Mom."
These words drifted perfectly into the ears of Isabella and the socialites hovering nearby.