Rewrite Her Thrilling Life (Lillian and Sebastian) novel Chapter 231

Chapter 231: Humiliation and Retaliation

Lillian didn’t hesitate as she lifted the lid of the ornate brocade box. Nestled inside was a set of emerald jewelry, exquisitely fashioned with delicate craftsmanship. Yet, despite the beauty of the design, the emeralds themselves were disappointingly average. For someone like Lillian, who owned a premier emerald mine, these stones were hardly impressive enough to warrant her serious attention.

Cary’s smile was courteous but tinged with anticipation. “Do you like it, Ms. Lillian?” he asked, eager for approval.

She casually picked up a pendant, letting her gaze linger on it for a moment before setting it back down with deliberate care. A mocking smile curved her lips, and her eyes sparkled with a sharp sarcasm that didn’t go unnoticed. Still, she maintained the perfect façade of a woman who appreciated fine things. “Cary, you flatter me too much. Fiona’s emeralds? Honestly, they’re far too precious. I’ve never come across anything quite like this in my life,” she said with a tone dripping in irony.

Cary’s expression tightened slightly—he hadn’t expected her to be knowledgeable enough to distinguish the quality of emeralds so confidently.

Everly’s eyes narrowed with growing contempt. How could anyone so lacking in taste get so excited over such a cheap set of stones? She was certain Sebastian would soon recognize her true value. With an air of superiority, she interjected, “Of course Fiona’s emeralds are precious. A set like this easily costs over a million. It’s no wonder you’ve never seen one before.”

Lillian’s smile turned sly as she glanced sideways at the man beside her. “Sebastian, would you say Fiona’s emeralds are more valuable than the ruby you gave me?”

Sebastian remained quiet, his gaze warm and amused. He knew this little troublemaker was stirring the pot again. “They can’t compare to the ruby,” he replied calmly.

“What about the old-mine glassy jade?” Lillian pressed.

“Still no contest,” Sebastian answered.

“And pristine emeralds?” she continued, feigning innocence.

“Even less so,” he said with a soft chuckle.

With an air of playful innocence, Lillian added, “Even my Sunny wears ruby jewelry. I doubt Sunny would ever bother with Fiona’s emeralds.”

Then, with a mischievous glint, she said, “Oh, by the way, Sunny is my pet fox. I believe Ms. Everly should remember—the little fox you once planned to get rid of. It has a particular fondness for gold, silver, and emeralds, you know.”

The atmosphere shifted instantly. Cary and the others’ faces darkened; it was a direct slap in the face.

Everly’s cheeks flushed crimson. “You insolent bitch! How dare you call something from the Chris residence cheap!”

Sebastian gazed at her tear-streaked face. Though he knew she was pretending, his heart ached for her all the same. He kissed her forehead softly, murmuring, “You leave me no choice. You’re my treasure. How could I not dote on you? Everything I’ve said to you still counts.”

Everly watched their intimate exchange, her anger simmering beneath the surface. Shameless woman, seducing Sebastian so openly in front of everyone.

Cary swallowed his irritation, forcing a polite smile. “It’s clear Mr. Whitmore truly dotes on Ms. Lillian. But today’s banquet is a rare occasion. It would be a shame to miss the festivities—so many young people have come.”

Everly caught the hint immediately. Rising to her feet, she turned to Lillian. “Ms. Lillian, allow me to introduce you to the others.”

Lillian shot her a playful glance, the corners of her mouth curling with mockery. “Of course.”

Sebastian’s dark eyes flickered with an unreadable emotion. He gently brushed a stray lock of hair from her face and whispered, “Remember, you are the future mistress of the Austine family. If anyone disrespects you, don’t hesitate. I trust Cary won’t allow anyone to cause trouble in the Chris residence.”

His words left no room for doubt: if anyone dared cross her, she had every right to fight back.

Lillian’s smile grew sly as she looked at the woman beside her. “Don’t worry. As the hostess, Ms. Everly surely wouldn’t let her guests suffer any grievances.” With that, she rose gracefully and made her way toward the door.