Earlier, Lola had taken the twins to Chairman Lancaster’s residence, where they played and brought sunshine to the old home. When they left, she dropped the children off at Summit Partners, as she had another agenda for the day.
"Sure, I will go," Lola smiled beautifully at the mother-and-daughter duo. "Since my husband and I still have many things to settle in Novera, I might come."
Excitement immediately brightened Jasmine’s and Melissa’s faces, and they clasped their hands together.
"Mrs. Bennet, I’ll send you the invitation as soon as I can!" Melissa exclaimed. "Let me know where I can send it."
Jasmine nodded modestly. "We’ll save you a special spot."
"If Mr. Bennet is also here, we’ll prepare another seat for him too," Melissa added. "The engagement took quite a long time to prepare. We wanted it to be special..."
Melissa then resumed talking about her upcoming engagement. The mother and daughter had been chirping nonstop since the tea began, and even now, after getting what they wanted, they didn’t stop.
Lola sipped her tea, watching them over the rim of her cup. A glint flickered across her eyes as the corners of her mouth curved up.
"It’ll be memorable for sure," she mused as she set the cup down. "...right?"
Jasmine and Melissa paused, raising their brows as a faintly off feeling tickled them from Lola’s aura. They ignored it, nodding and smiling from ear to ear.
"By the way, Mrs. Bennet, do you have time for some proper tea parties?"
Lola arched a brow, tilting her head. "We’re already having tea, aren’t we?"
"Not like that," Melissa giggled lightly while Jasmine waved gently.
"She means the tea parties hosted by ladies in Novera’s upper-class circle," Jasmine explained. "They’re always hosted by Celestine Lancaster. She owns one of the largest shares in the NL Group, and her connections in Novera’s elite circle are vast. She’s also known for her successful investments and business partnerships. It could be beneficial for you both to meet her."
"Oh." Lola nodded, rocking her head. Of course, she knew Celestine.
She didn’t have many memories of the woman but remembered her as the Lancaster’s princess. Anyone born and raised on Novera’s business stage would know her and her infamous tea parties.
But I didn’t think Melissa would manage to get in. Considering Celestine built these parties to be desired by most women in the upper circle, she personally filters who can attend.
"Well..." Lola hummed, pondering. "Sure. I’ve heard of these tea parties, and I’m curious about what they truly are."
Melissa’s smile stretched into a wide grin, as if she had just won the lottery. Lola, on the other hand, forced a smile. She had no intention of associating with the Lancasters further, but it wasn’t a bad idea to expand her network in Novera.
*****
Melissa happily bit her lip as she sat beside her mother in the backseat.
"So, what did Celestine tell you?" Jasmine asked curiously. "She must be thrilled that you managed to invite Mrs. Bennet."
"Yes. She said she’ll arrange the tea party soon," Melissa chuckled, recalling Celestine’s tone. "She’s been trying to get Mrs. Bennet’s contact, but couldn’t."
Jasmine smiled in satisfaction, taking Melissa’s hand. "Melissa, dear, I’m so proud of you. If you gain Celestine’s trust, things will be easier for you and Derek. You’re doing a good job."
Melissa blushed, nodding.
"She even invited me to join her for her shopping time," Melissa added. Celestine only shopped with her closest friends, those she truly trusted. Now, she was inviting Melissa. "I told her I’d go."
It’s not that I dislike her. If anything, I have no particular feelings.
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