676.Chapter 676
“Jacqueline, look at you! This isn’t the place to linger,” Fletcher said, his tone a mix of helplessness and authority. “Let’s head home for now. We’ll discuss everything later. Now, go on, say goodbye to Her Grace.”
What else could Jacqueline do? She had no choice.
Clutching the cloak handed to her by a maid, she draped it over herself to cover up, then reluctantly bowed to Eliza. “Your Grace, please forgive me. I shall take my leave.”
Eliza cast her a cold, indifferent glance.
She hadn’t planned to let Jacqueline and her father off so easily, but Fletcher’s sharp instincts had caught her by surprise.
In a split second, he had sensed the danger and decisively chosen to retreat.
If it had been Gabriel, that cunning old man, he’d still be here, trying to probe further.
‘What a tough one to deal with,’ Eliza thought.
Eliza narrowed her eyes slightly. “Miss Henderson, falling into the water must’ve been quite the ordeal. Why not change into something dry here and have some ginger tea before heading home? It’ll help keep you from catching a cold.”
Fletcher cleared his throat. “Thank you for your concern, Your Grace, but there’s no need. The Henderson residence is just two streets away. It’ll be more convenient to change at home.”
It wasn’t exactly a refusal, as the Henderson residence was indeed nearby, just two streets away.
Having done her part to maintain appearances, Eliza didn’t press further. “Very well. Malaki, please escort Mr. Henderson and Miss Henderson out personally.”
“Yes, ma’am,” Malaki replied.
He immediately stepped forward and gestured politely for them to proceed.
Fletcher gave a quick nod to Nolan, Hubert, and the others before hurrying Jacqueline
out.
As the father and daughter left, Eliza’s gaze swept over the crowd outside the door.
She didn’t spot anyone else with suspicious intentions.
It looked like today was going to be calm.
“The banquet is in full swing, but I didn’t expect the earlier incident to disrupt everyone‘
s mood. I truly feel bad about it. Fortunately, I recently came across a few jars of Elderflower wine. If you don’t mind, I’d love to share them with you. Since I can’t drink, l‘ Il raise a cup of coffee to apologize instead.”
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676 Chapter 676
Eliza stood up gracefully, her smile warm and composed as she addressed the guests.
The attendees responded with cheerful smiles.
“You’re too kind, Your Grace.”
“No need to be so formal, Your Grace. It’s just a small matter.”
“Elderflower wine at the Padilla estate? What a treat!”
“It is said that this Elderflower wine can only be brewed by the former head of the Padilla family. The key ingredient is the orchid, and the taste is truly unforgettable.”
“It’s been years since I’ve smelled its fragrance. Just hearing about it makes my mouth
water!”
“Haha, looks like we’re in for a treat today!”
In no time, the guests had forgotten the earlier mishap, their excitement now centered on the Padilla family’s legendary Elderflower wine.
Hubert smiled.
Diana had been worried Eliza wouldn’t be able to handle these old–timers on her own,
so she rushed Hubert over to act as backup.
But watching Eliza now, Hubert realized she was more than capable, despite her
young age.
She was calm, collected, and handled everything with grace, showing a maturity beyond her years.
There was really no need to worry about her.
Even so, Hubert chuckled and said, “Since there’s Elderflower wine to enjoy, I’d better grab some dishes to pair with it. Ladies and gentlemen, the banquet isn’t over yet, and I’m feeling quite hungry. Would you all do me the honor of continuing to dine with me?”
“Haha, of course, of course! Let’s not keep Mr. Baker waiting. He mustn’t go hungry!”
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