novelxo Chapter 222
The sight stirred her interest, but before she could comment, Kailee’s voice cut through the air.
“Albin’s here!” She was practically dragging him toward Shawn.
“Hello, Shawn,” Albin greeted courteously, his signature charisma evident.
“You look as spirited as ever.”
Kailee quickly noticed Billie’s lingering glance and seized the opportunity.
“Aunt Billie, that necklace Elizabeth’s wearing? It’s a gift from Elijah.
Can you believe it? Today is Grandma’s birthday, and yet Elizabeth still managed to walk away with a present.” She turned to Albin.
“Albin, isn’t that necklace valued at $10.73 million?”
Caught off guard, Albin rubbed his nose awkwardly.
His reply was swift but noncommittal.
“Billie, you don’t need diamonds to outshine everyone—you already do.”
Before Billie could respond, Elizabeth interjected gently.
“If you like it, Billie, I’ll take it off and give it to you.”
Billie’s composure remained steady as she replied evenly, “That’s unnecessary.
Pink doesn’t suit me.”
Albin seized the moment to redirect the discussion.
“Exactly! Billie is far better suited to rubies—sophisticated and majestic.”
Elijah, who had been silently observing, added coolly, “Keep an eye out for any extraordinary rubies in the market.
If you find something fitting, acquire it and send it to the James Mansion.”
Billie took a sip of her coffee, her expression calm.
“I’m getting older.
I don’t wear showy jewelry anymore.”
Melany chimed in with a knowing smile, holding up her own diamond ring.
“If I can still wear jewelry at my age, you absolutely can, Billie.
You’re not old.”
“Melany, what are you saying? It’s your birthday—you should absolutely dress up.” Billie replied smoothly, subtly steering the focus away from herself.
Kailee, however, wasn’t ready to abandon her attempt to belittle Elizabeth.
But before she could say more, Albin placed a firm hand on her shoulder.
“Kailee, I’m feeling a bit peckish.
Could you show me where the snacks are?”
Kailee reluctantly left with Albin, while Elizabeth couldn’t help but notice how Albin, who had rarely shown her much regard before, had stepped in several times that evening to shield her from potential humiliation.
It was an uncommon act of consideration on his part, and it didn’t go unnoticed.
Kailee’s face fell as Albin guided her away, her resentment toward Elizabeth deepening even further.