The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 208

With a darkened expression, Margaret glanced at Eloise, clearly displeased. “If you know you’ve spoiled her, then discipline her properly. What kind of example is it for her to be crying and whining all day?”

Eloise’s face flushed with embarrassment. Lowering her head, she replied in a barely audible voice, “Yes, Lady Margaret.”

Margaret continued, “I know you dote on Willow, but you must remember–she’ll have to walk her own path in the future. Do you really expect her to manage the household as the lady of the house while still sniveling over every little thing?”

At this, she sighed in exasperation, “Here at the duke’s estate, she has you to dote on her and rely on for everything. But once she marries into the Osborne family, she can’t solve problems by shedding a few tears.”

Others might think Margaret was picking on Willow and Eloise, but Athena knew she truly wanted what was best for this family. Otherwise, Margaret wouldn’t have gone through all this trouble to counsel Eloise.

The atmosphere at the table grew tense, and no one dared to pick up their fork. Even Willow stifled her sobs. She cowered beside Eloise, too frightened to even lift her head. Her demeanor reeked of vulgar pettiness.

Henry cleared his throat and addressed Margaret, saying, “Mother, today is a joyous occasion. Let’s not dwell on those matters. Come, let’s eat.”

Not wishing to spoil the mood, Margaret picked up her fork.

At the dinner table, Margaret turned to Fiona, who kept silent. and asked, “How is Cedric doing lately? Has his health improved?”

Flattered by the attention, Fiona managed a small, grateful smile. “Cedric has always had frail health since birth. Thank you for your concern, Lady Margaret. He’s much better now.”

“Well, well.” Margaret nodded, visibly relieved. Cedric was her great–grandson. Margaret naturally doted on the younger generation.

Seeing Fiona’s haggard, worried face, Margaret gently reassured her. “Cedric is still just a few months old. As he grows, his constitution will strengthen. Don’t fret. When he’s a bit older, let him play outdoors more; that’ll build up his resilience.”

In this household, Fiona might as well have been invisible. Scarcely anyone ever noticed her existence.

No one had ever spoken to her like this before. Upon hearing Margaret’s kind words, Fiona’s eyes welled up with tears. Overwhelmed with gratitude, she bowed her head and whispered, “Thank you, Lady Margaret.”

If even her husband paid her no mind, no one could be expected to treat her with any regard.

Margaret saw things clearly. The duke’s estate would ultimately need to be entrusted to Fiona’s care.

Clearly intending to raise Fiona’s status, Margaret turned to her and said kindly, “I’ve spent many years in solitude. Should you find the time, do come to Starling House and keep me company.”

Fiona was utterly astonished. She stared at Margaret in disbelief until Nicolas gave her a subtle nudge, snapping her out of her daze. Blushing, she quickly lowered her head and murmured respectfully, “Yes, Lady Margaret, I will remember.”

“Very well, let’s eat.” Margaret gave Fiona a gentle, affectionate smile, then said to Athena, “Give the soup in front of me to

Fiona.”

Athena replied, “Yes,” and instructed the servants to bring the soup to Fiona.

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Chapter 208

Overwhelmed with emotion, Fiona nearly burst into tears, bowing her head repeatedly as she said, “Thank you, Lady Margaret. Thank you so much.”

Margaret chuckled softly, “This soup is especially nourishing. Only when you have a healthy constitution can your child grow robust. From now on, you shall have a bowl of soup every day. I’ll cover the expense.”

Laughter rippled through the room, yet Willow alone remained stone–faced.

Willow couldn’t win Margaret’s favor and had almost been banished from the estate.

Eloise couldn’t help but feel awkward. After all, she was Fiona’s rightful mother–in–law. “Lady Margaret is overstepping her authority and humiliating me by taking over like this, isn’t it?‘ she thought bitterly.

Eloise forced a strained smile. The meal sat heavy in her stomach, leaving nothing but bitterness.

By afternoon, a light drizzle began to fall. Though not heavy, the dreary rain was enough to put everyone on edge.

AD