Rewrite Her Thrilling Life (Lillian and Sebastian) novel Chapter 69

Kingston, at the Whitmore family’s ancestral estate, the atmosphere was steeped in understated elegance. The grand property exuded a timeless charm—there was no flashy gold or gaudy sparkle here, just an exquisite attention to detail that spoke volumes about refined taste and heritage.

In the courtyard, a delicate stream murmured softly beneath a quaint stone bridge, framed by lush, verdant foliage. The carefully curated garden lent an air of peacefulness to the scene, even as the staff moved briskly about, preparing the grounds for the day’s important celebration.

This day was special—it marked the 80th birthday of Mr. Greg Whitmore, the venerable patriarch of the Whitmore family. The estate buzzed with more life than it had seen in years. Nobles, dignitaries, and prominent socialites had all gathered, eager to pay their respects and perhaps deepen their connections with the illustrious Whitmore name.

Inside the grand banquet hall, Greg was the center of attention, surrounded by a steady stream of well-wishers. Though his hair had long since turned pure white, his commanding presence remained undiminished. There was a quiet strength in the way he carried himself, an aura that demanded respect without a word.

Standing loyally by his side were his son Jared and daughter-in-law Ruby. Jared, in his early forties, had a strong, square jaw and features that spoke of dignity and calm authority. His tall, composed figure radiated confidence. Ruby, dressed in a modest gown of soft, muted hues, wore her makeup with subtlety, enhancing a gentle beauty that hinted at the striking woman she must have been in her youth.

Together, Jared and Ruby welcomed the guests with warmth and grace, their smiles genuine and inviting.

Clusters of attendees mingled, sipping fine wine and sampling delicate pastries. The air was filled with laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the hum of lively conversation.

“Mr. Whitmore, may you live a thousand years!” one guest toasted, raising a glass.

“Indeed! You look even more vigorous than last year,” another added with a smile.

Greg returned their well-wishes with a warm, genial smile. “Thank you,” he said softly, accepting their blessings with quiet dignity.

“Grandpa, wishing you health as vast as the East Sea and a life as enduring as the Southern Mountains,” came a gentle voice as two figures approached.

The young woman had a serene, composed beauty, her demeanor calm and warm. Her companion, a tall, handsome young man, bore a striking resemblance to Jared. These were Jared’s eldest daughter Elsa and his second son Felix.

“I thought you two had forgotten my birthday,” Greg teased, his eyes twinkling with affection.

Felix grinned broadly and linked his arm through the old man’s. “Never, Grandpa! We wanted to stay by your side all day, but we figured you might get tired of us. If you don’t mind, I’ll be your personal shadow from now on.”

Greg tapped Felix’s forehead affectionately. “You’re grown now, but still lack a sense of propriety.”

At that moment, a rich voice echoed through the hall. “Mr. Whitmore, happy birthday!”

Triny’s smile brightened. “I remember too. You, me… and Sebastian…” She glanced around the room. “Speaking of which, where is Sebastian? I haven’t seen him in years. He was always the one bullying everyone.”

Leon laughed. “That’s true. You used to say you’d marry him one day.”

Triny’s cheeks flushed a deep pink. She shot a mock glare at her father. “Dad! How could you say that in front of everyone?”

Elsa grinned mischievously. “Sebastian hasn’t shown up yet. He said he was coming back, but he’s still nowhere to be seen.”

Felix raised an eyebrow and teased, “What’s this? Still holding a candle for my big brother?”

Mr. Whitmore lightly smacked the back of Felix’s head. “Watch your mouth. At least Triny remembers the past. You could learn a thing or two.”

Felix rubbed the back of his head, feigning injury. “Grandpa, it’s your birthday today. Shouldn’t you be nicer to your most beloved grandson?”

The crowd around them erupted into laughter, the warmth and joy of the moment filling the room.