Chapter 41
Chapter 41
Annabel cut her off coldly, “And why would I want to do that?”
Hannah’s face twisted with contempt. “Lillian was just trying to help. If you’re too scared, just say so. No need to snap at her. Talk about biting the hand
that feeds you.”
Lillian shook her head slightly. “Hannah, my sister has other talents. And gifts don’t really matter, do they? We’re family.”
Hannah scoffed, “Yeah, right. She certainly doesn’t treat you like family!”
“Are you completely clueless?” Annabel asked earnestly, “This is the White residence. Are you really insulting Miss Annabel White, in public, like this? Have you got no social awareness at all? Can’t you read the room?”
Hannah flushed, sticking her neck out and yelling back, “I’m Lillian’s friend! I’m a guest! Is this how you treat guests?”
Annabel sneered, “Otherwise, I’d have thrown you out already.”
The conviction in Annabel’s voice sent a shiver down Hannah’s spine. She snapped her mouth shut and instinctively ducked behind Lillian.
Annabel just smiled, watching Hannah without saying a word.
Just as Hannah looked about ready to burst into tears, Walter White descended the stairs. Everyone turned towards him; compared to the head of the family, the squabble between the younger generation seemed trivial.
All eyes were on Walter as guests greeted him warmly. Only Annabel noticed his unsteady gait, her brow furrowing in concern.
Lillian and Beatrice exchanged faint, knowing smiles. Heh, looks like the drug is working, they thought.
Annabel moved forward to offer Walter her arm, but he waved her off, insisting on standing on his own.
Prompted by a look from Beatrice, Lillian stepped forward, addressing the crowd sweetly, “Thank you all for coming to my mom’s birthday party. Today also marks the fiftieth anniversary of the White Group, so I’ve prepared a piece for my mom… and for my grandfather.”
Warm applause filled the room.
Like a graceful swan, Lillian took her seat at the grand piano under everyone’s gaze. Her slender fingers danced across the keys, and music began to fill the air. Her awards weren’t just for show; Lillian truly possessed musical talent, and many guests were quickly captivated.
Annabel’s expression remained neutral, her eyes unreadable, giving nothing away. Yet, there was something unsettling about her stillness.
With a final chord, Lillian finished her piece, rising to bow to the audience. Sustained applause followed. Victor and Beatrice beamed with pride.
Into this seemingly harmonious atmosphere, Hannah piped up again, determined to stir trouble, “Mrs. White! Miss Annabel said she has a performance for you too, as a birthday gift!”
Privately, Annabel could have refused or even scoffed, but this put her squarely on the spot. Her decision now carried more weight. Most importantly, Annabel didn’t want to embarrass her grandfather. He cared for her so much; how could she let him down now? Someone was practically begging for a slap–down–how could she refuse to deliver?
“Yes,” Annabel announced, her voice clear. “I also have a piece for you, Beatrice.”
A benevolent smile immediately spread across Beatrice’s face, radiating false warmth. “Wonderful, Annabel. Regardless of how it turns out, the thought truly touches me. I’m sure you’ve prepared for a long time.”
Annabel hadn’t prepared at all.
But Annabel didn’t say that. She walked straight towards the piano, pausing as she passed Charles. “You’re coming with me.”
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Chapter 41
Charles blinked, completely bewildered. He knew nothing about music. Was Annabel trying to humiliate him?
Annabel deliberately pressed, “It’s Beatrice’s birthday today, Charles. Are you saying you’re unwilling?”
Charles stammered, caught between saying yes or no, when a deep, magnetic voice cut through the chatter from across the room.
“I’ll help you.” Jonathan Turner appeared, Leonard Jensen at his side.
The pair instantly drew all eyes, especially Jonathan. Who was this incredibly handsome man radiating such effortless confidence? His sharp features were balanced by intense eyes that seemed to hold a mischievous glint, captivating onlookers, When he smiled, it was enough to melt hearts; one look into those deep–set eyes, and you were lost.
Someone gasped instinctively, “Oh my god, he’s gorgeous.”
Annabel frowned sharply. ‘How did they get here? Did they even have invitations!
As she thought this, Jonathan was already walking towards her, the crowd parting naturally to let him pass. He stopped right in front of her.
Annabel, stunning in a pale blue gown, was effortlessly beautiful without a touch of makeup, while Jonathan wore a perfectly tailored suit in a complementary shade. Standing together, they looked striking, a perfectly matched pair.
“Talk about a power couple,” someone murmured.
Jonathan raised an eyebrow, asking, “What are you planning to play?”
Annabel’s gaze flickered towards Walter, noticing his strange excitement. After a moment’s silence, she said, “Not the piano. It’s the harp.”
A slight smirk played on Jonathan’s lips, his eyes sparkling with a captivating charm. “I’ll play the piano.”
“My piece isn’t easy to accompany.” Annabel raised her eyebrows.
Jonathan radiated confidence. “I’m sure I can keep up.”
Annabel didn’t argue further, just said, “Suit yourself,” and sat down at the harp that the staff had prepared earlier.
Her elegant fingers found their place on the strings.
Jonathan was also ready. They shared a knowing glance. Annabel began, the harp weaving a melody that was both ancient and fresh, like cool spring water, transporting the listeners, making them feel as if they were wandering through a serene, sun–dappled forest.
Just as the audience was captivated by Annabel’s skill, the piano joined in. Instead of clashing or disrupting the mood Annabel had created, it blended seamlessly, adding a rich, unexpected layer.
Could a harp and piano truly harmonize like this?
No, it wasn’t just the instruments; it was Annabel on the harp and Jonathan on the piano, their connection palpable, creating an unforgettable musical experience for everyone present.
Lillian’s earlier piece, while technically proficient, had felt rigid, lacking the soul Annabel poured into her music. This was different; Annabel wasn’t just playing notes, she was baring her heart, each note resonating deep within the listeners.
“Oh…” Someone was actually moved to tears, sniffling softly.
Lost. Lillian stared intently at Annabel, who played with downcast eyes, fury threatening to consume her. She lost! To that nobody, to some random musician who crashed the party!
In her rage, Lillian clenched her fist so tightly the delicate bracelet on her wrist snapped, digging into her skin and drawing blood.
Hannah noticed. “Lillian, are you okay?” she asked, startled.
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Chapter 41
But one look at Lillian’s terrifying expression made Hannah gasp. “Lillian… you…”
“I told you,” Lillian hissed, her voice low and venomous, “if my sister didn’t want to perform, you shouldn’t have let her!”
Hannah felt a wave of humiliation. She wanted to explain but was too intimidated by Lillian’s glare. Mumbling a quick “I’m sorry,” she lowered her head, wishing the ground would swallow her whole. She couldn’t bear to stay there a moment longer.
As the final note faded, Annabel took a moment to compose herself before rising. She gave a slight bow to the audience and walked away.
Jonathan, who rarely bowed for anyone, gave a brief nod and followed Annabel.
Instantly, Annabel was surrounded by admirers, complimenting her performance, asking about the harp. She became the undeniable center of attention.
Lillian’s eyes burned with jealousy. Taking a deep breath to control her emotions, she forced a smile and approached. “Sister, your playing was lovely. And your friend is incredibly talented too. Won’t you introduce us?”
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.