The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 490

Chapter 490

A flicker of surprise crossed Kelsey’s mind. She had assumed that even if Athena was disowned, the mother daughter bond would still remain. But to her astonishment, even Eloise harbored resentment toward her own daughter–clearly, Athena was nothing but trouble.

Kelsey turned to Willow and said, “When you have time, do try to talk some sense into Fiona Don’t let her be misled by those with all intentions”

“Yes, Mother in law,” Willow replied obediently, though inwardly she felt uneasy

She thought, “Last time I tried to talk to Fions, the just scolded me and sent me away. I really don’t know what kind of spell Athena has put on her to

make her change so much.”

Thank God, Eloise still trust me, Willow thought. ‘Or r’d have no place in this family”

Seeing that the conversation was winding down, Eloise subtly steered the topic toward Matthew’s recent troubles. She sighed. “Ever since the New Year, it’s been one thing after another. We haven’t gathered in ages, Why don’t you take the lead and host a banquet sometime? It might help it everyone’s spirits

Eloise’s words struck a chord with Kelsey. She nodded, “I was thinking the same. Why not hold it on the Double Third Festival–a traditional spring purification festival? It’s the perfect time to pray for blessings and ward off misfortune. Let’s make it a truly splendid affair?

‘If I’m going to host a banquet, it certainly won’t be a modest one, Kelsey thought to herself, ever the status–consciouslady.

She intended to use the event to mend fences and counter the negative rumors swirling around the Osborne family

The guest list would be carefully curated from her inner circle.

Knowing that the Maynard family would certainly be invited, Eloise breathed a sigh of relet,

“Very well, it’s settled then,” Eloise rose to her feet, her face breaking into a practiced smile. “Do take good care of yourself. I must be going now–there are still matters awaiting me at home.”

Kelsey nodded and instructed Willow, “Willow, please see Eloise out for me”

“Yes, Mother in law,” willow replied with a respectful curtsy, as Kelsey assisted by her maid, retreated to her own courtyard.

Willow linked arms with Eloise as they walked out and quietly asked, “Mother, will your plan really work?”

“Don’t worry, it’ll work for sure. Eloise thumped her chest confidently. “I’ve been through it all–would lover steer you wrong? Do you know why your Lather hasn’t taken a concubine all these years? That’s entirely thanks to my guidance. With men, you have to keep him enchanted while maintaining just the right balance–make him respect and adore you. Got it?”

Willow nodded obediently. “Of course, Mother, I’ll do exactly as you say.

As they were chatting a figure suddenly emerged ahead.

It was Michael.

He seemed to have just returned from outside and was heading back to his own courtyard when he unexpectedly ran into Eloise and Willow, compelling

him to stop and greet them.

“Lady Eloise,” Michael said with a respectful bow.

With a beaming smile, Eloise said, “Willow was just talking about you, saying you cherish her like a precious gem. Seeing how devoted you two are really puts my mind at ease

Hearing this, Michael cast a surprised glance at Willow.

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Chapter 490

Michael noticed the veil still covering Willow’s

face–a silent reminder hay wounds hadn’t yet healed.

Her eyes, once sparkling with life, now brimmed with quiet sorrow, their former liveliness gone

Michael suddenly felt a pang of guilt. Tve been far too cold to Willow, he thought. Yet she still stands up for me. As a man, I shouldn’t act like this

Michael cast an apologétic glance at Willow, his gaze softening. “I’ve been swamped with official duties lately and ended up neglecting my fault

“Honey, I’m perfectly fine,” Willow replied, her face brightening with barely contained delight as she experly responded to Michael

Eloise cut in, stopping Willow mid–sentence. “Good. As long as you guys get along well, everything will only be better. “only came today to check on your mother–in–law. Now that I see she’s well, my mind is at ease. I’ll be taking my leave now

Michael and Willow escorted Eloise to her carriage, watching as the carriage drove away. Only then did they return to the manor.

As Michael and Willow walked side by side back, he asked gently, “How are your wounds? Are they getting better?”

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