Rewrite Her Thrilling Life (Lillian and Sebastian) novel Chapter 517

**Chapter 517: The Phillips Family’s Young Lady**

Madison stood nearby, her jaw clenched so tightly that she feared her teeth might shatter under the pressure. Every moment felt like an unwelcome intrusion in her own home, a space that had once been filled with warmth and familiarity. Audrey’s voice quivered with a mix of confusion and hurt. “Mom, why would Grandpa take on another granddaughter? Isn’t having me enough?”

Madison placed a comforting hand on her daughter’s shoulder, forcing a gentle smile despite the turmoil inside her. “Don’t worry, sweetheart. She’s just an outsider. You are his true granddaughter.”

Yes—just an outsider, Madison mused bitterly. An eternal outsider. The presence of this Lillian was a looming threat, one that she had to eliminate swiftly. If the girl lingered, she could overshadow both Madison and Audrey in ways that were too dangerous to contemplate. And what was this so-called “first gift” that the old man had bestowed upon her? Madison’s curiosity churned into a need for answers; she had to uncover the truth.

As the charity gala officially commenced, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement. The auction items showcased not only donations from the Phillips family but also intriguing consignments from other guests.

On stage, the auctioneer’s voice rang out, describing each item with enthusiasm. Below, the hall was alive with small clusters of people—some animatedly discussing the auction lots, others sharing laughter, while whispers about the new young lady of the Phillips family danced through the air like a secret melody.

Sebastian guided Lillian toward the refreshment area, deftly swapping the glass of wine she held for a bright, cheerful glass of juice. “I’m not babysitting another tipsy girl tonight,” he remarked, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

Lillian pouted, her expression a mixture of defiance and mischief. “Then you can just toss me out on the street. I won’t hold it against you. Someone else will surely take me in.”

Sebastian couldn’t suppress a laugh, both exasperated and amused by her antics. This girl had an uncanny ability to find his soft spots, always poking and prodding him in ways that left him both irritated and entertained.

Meanwhile, out on the balcony, Richard leaned against the railing, an amused glint in his eyes as he observed the pair. He had once thought that the head of the Austine family was merely playing with this girl, but years later, witnessing his continued protectiveness, Richard found himself intrigued by the dynamics at play.

“What are you staring at?” Rence inquired, her graceful steps bringing her closer to him.

At that moment, Lillian found herself alone in a quiet corner of the lounge, Merrick and Sebastian having stepped away for a private conversation. She gazed at the auction items being paraded across the stage, boredom creeping in as the spectacle unfolded.

“Ms. Harrington. Long time no see,” a voice interrupted her thoughts.

Lillian turned, her lips curling into a cold smile. “Yes, I never expected to encounter Mr. Stint after three long years. Quite the surprise. Though honestly, if I had the option, I would prefer to never see you again. I imagine you feel the same way about me.”

Richard settled onto the sofa beside her, crossing his legs casually, a low laugh escaping his lips. “I didn’t think Ms. Harrington would still possess such a sharp tongue. But I must confess, you’ll be disappointed. I’ve missed you quite a bit. In fact, I may even owe you something.”

“Is that so? How unfortunate for me,” Lillian replied, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “And no, you don’t owe me anything. We had a deal. As long as you didn’t harm my friends, I would assist you. We’re even now.”