The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 44

Chapter 44

“This isn’t my day to be the center of attention, so why dress so eye–catchingly?” Athena picked up the gold hairpin Margaret had given her and held it up to her hair, testing it.

Wearing the entire set would be too much, but one pin would be enough. It would satisfy Margaret’s feelings without making her look too flashy. As for everyone else’s feelings, she wondered, ‘Why should I care?‘

Siena and Aliza were about to try to convince her again when Athena called for Trina. “Go and bring me the blue dress from the wardrobe.”

Trina nodded, opened the wardrobe, and brought the dress, placing it beside Athena.

Siena shot Trina a sharp glare. Trina remained unfazed, calmly going back to her cleaning.

Siena felt her frustration building, like she’d punched the air. She was seething inside.

Athena noticed this and gave it some thought.

Just as she was about to change, she heard Joseph’s voice from outside. “Athena.”

His carefree laugh rang out from a distance.

Athena furrowed her brow, but before she could respond, Joseph had already entered.

He casually sat down in front of her, grinning. “Today is Willow’s birthday. What gift did you get her?”

‘A gift?‘ Athena sneered inwardly. She hadn’t prepared anything at all.

But before she could speak, Joseph’s eyes landed on the dress on the tray. “What a beautiful dress! I knew you wouldn’t show up empty–handed, Athena. We grew up together, and you’ve never missed one of Willow’s birthdays.”

Athena smiled faintly. She thought, ‘Well, the dress has found its purpose. But no one would have things go exactly as they hope.‘

Siena and Aliza widened their eyes in surprise, ready to explain that the dress had been given by Eloise.

But before Athena could speak, they fell silent, knowing it was better not to say anything. After all, such a lovely dress was only right for Willow.

Meanwhile, Joseph, still not satisfied with just the dress, turned his attention to the gilded hairpin on the vanity. “This hairpin is so delicate as well…”

As he reached for it, Athena swiftly jabbed the hairpin into the gap between his fingers, causing him to recoil in shock.

He looked at her, wide–eyed with fear, and complained, “What are you doing? I was just looking! You nearly ruined hand!”

my

“This was a gift from Grandmother,” Athena said coldly, her voice soft but carrying a sharp edge. “No one is allowed to touch

it.”

Joseph realized that she had changed. No longer the soft, obedient sister, she had become someone ruthless, indifferent, and

cold.

He scoffed, rolling his eyes. “What’s the big deal? It’s just a few old hairpins. Since when did you become so petty?”

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Chapter 44

The old Athena wouldn’t have acted this way. Back then, whatever he wanted, she would give to him without question. But now, she was selfish and cruel.

All the family’s guilt toward her had been drained. She truly didn’t know how to appreciate anything.

Grumbling, he snatched up the dress and left with a flourish.

As he stepped outside, his servant couldn’t help but speak up. “Lord Joseph, that dress was a gift from Lady Eloise to Lady Athena. Isn’t it wrong to take it like this?”

Joseph flicked the servant’s head with his fan. “Do you think I don’t know it was from Mother to Athena? That’s exactly why I’m taking it!”

Thinking of Athena’s icy expression and then remembering how gentle and sweet Willow was, Joseph muttered, “How can someone so vile as her wear such a precious dress? It belongs to Willow. She’s beautiful, and she’s the one who truly deserves

it.”

Lula touched his head, too scared to say anything else.

The two of them made their way to Willow’s courtyard.

Willow’s courtyard was much grander than Athena’s, with vibrant flowers and willow trees creating an impressive, spacious atmosphere. Thanks to her birthday, and with Eloise’s recent additions, it looked even more luxurious.

The courtyard was filled with people, bustling with excitement.

As soon as Joseph entered, he called out loudly, “Willow, I’m here to see you!”

Inside, several people were already gathered.

Nicolas and Matthew were there as well. Their injuries had healed, and both turned to look at Joseph.

When Joseph caught the stern gaze of Nicolas, his steps faltered, and he sheepishly grinned. “Oh, Nicolas’s here too.”

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