Never Forgive Never Forget (Celeste and Philip) novel Chapter 125

In front of Hopkins Manor.

Herbert helped Amanda out of the car. Each of them cradled a large box in their arms.

The butler, having heard of their visit half an hour earlier, greeted them with deference and ushered them inside.

"Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Duncan. The master is waiting for you in the front hall. We've also notified Mr. Alfred and Mrs. Alfred of your arrival."

Mrs. Alfred?

Herbert and Amanda exchanged uneasy glances—what on earth was Celeste doing at the Duncan family estate at this hour?

Just then, Celeste strolled back from the garden. She spotted the couple immediately and approached at an unhurried pace.

Noticing the boxes in their arms, she raised an eyebrow.

"So, those are the thank-you gifts for Grandpa?"

"That's right. We couldn't possibly come empty-handed."

A sheen of sweat broke out on Herbert's forehead. He tried to shield the box with his arms, forcing a stiff smile. "Cece, this isn't just to thank your father for the Hopkins Group helping with our project. He also wanted to put in a good word for you. Grown-up business—no need for you to get involved…"

Instead of retreating, Celeste's curiosity only grew.

Herbert was notorious: whenever he gave a gift, he made sure the whole town knew about it. Yet here they were, practically hiding their offerings.

She studied the boxes more closely. Judging by their size, they looked like they were meant for porcelain or perhaps woodcarvings.

Porcelain.

Her brows drew together as she prepared to press them for answers.

At that moment, Alfred appeared behind her.

Celeste only needed a glance to recognize her mother's handiwork. A sharp pain stabbed through her heart.

"Father," she said, voice trembling, "these pieces were made by Mom for you, back when you were young. They were as precious as love tokens."

She looked at Herbert, her eyes shining with hurt and fury.

"I can't believe you'd use Mom's most cherished keepsakes—her life's work—as bargaining chips for your own gain."

A stunned silence settled over the room.

Magda, never one to hold her tongue, blurted out,

"No matter how fine a gift is, if it's passed through the hands of a heartless man, it brings nothing but bad luck."

"My grandparents' love was unshakable—stronger than steel, loyal to the end. What are you hoping to accomplish by giving us such a gift? Who exactly are you trying to insult?"