Chapter 5 Mrs. Wells, You Look Stunning

A hush descended on the room for a moment before someone let out a scornful chuckle.

Ivy's expression darkened as she looked at Natalia. "Kindly avoid speaking about things you don't understand."

With an uneasy grin, Natalia inquired, "Sienna, why didn't you gift Ivy the antique box you own?"

Sienna explained, looking towards Ivy, "It is too small, so I repurpose it for jewelry storage. If you like it, Ivy, it's yours."

Ivy dismissed the idea with a wave. "No need for that; this gift is perfectly fine."

She signaled a servant to stow Sienna's gift away, then observed Sienna's and Natalia's matching outfits. "It seems you two are quite in sync."

In a sweet tone, Natalia responded, "Sienna and I have always shared similar tastes since we were young."

A faint smile played on Sienna's lips. "Our common interests extend beyond just fashion."

Natalia's smile briefly wavered.

Sienna then slowly added, "Including oil painting."

Natalia let out a relieved sigh. "Well, while I enjoy oil painting, it's unfortunate that I never managed to attract the attention of Ricky Nash, the esteemed painter."

Ricky had chosen Sienna as his last apprentice.

Tricia Wells, Rhett's mother, added, "It's not about luck. Sienna's artistic skills surpass yours."

Embarrassed, Natalia searched for a response when suddenly, the room buzzed with excitement.

"The Lawson family is here!"

Tricia quickly assisted Ivy to her feet as they prepared to welcome the Lawsons.

Rhett turned Sienna's wheelchair toward the newcomers, and she immediately noticed the man accompanying Danica Lawson.

To anyone first encountering him, his cold, aloof demeanor was immediately apparent, overshadowing even his strikingly handsome face. His furrowed brows exuded an intensity that seemed to warn off any would-be admirers.

He resembled a towering, snow-capped mountain-grand yet distant, repelling those who ventured too close with his chilling presence.

At that moment, his sharp gaze shifted, causing Sienna's heart to flutter and compelling her to swiftly look away.

Little did she know, a moment's pause would have revealed a softness in his eyes.

The arrival of Danica at the birthday party took the Wells family by surprise and thrilled all the attendees.

Renowned for their wealth and deep connections, the Lawson family were rumored to have royal ties, with relatives in prominent government positions.

Danica herself was a rare sight in public, always keeping her dealings discreet. Her presence at this gathering was a significant honor for the Wells family.

Yet, it was clear that the Lawson family had come for one person in particular.

Captivated by Julian, Natalia supported Ivy and said warmly, "It's a great honor to have you and your grandson here, Mrs. Lawson."

Danica, uninterested in Natalia, asked instead, "Where is Sienna?"

Without hesitation, Ivy called out, "Sienna, come here."

As the guests made room, Rhett gently wheeled Sienna forward.

When Danica caught sight of Sienna, her previously stern expression melted into a warm smile. "What have you been up to these days? I haven't seen you in ages. Have you grown tired of my endless stories?"

"No." Sienna, touched by Danica's warmth, felt a comforting sense of affection swell within her.

She softly explained, "Actually, I've been putting together a birthday present for Ivy."

Ivy chimed in quickly, "She created a special perfume for me. It's wonderful."

Then, in a teasing tone, she added, "You know, since Mrs. Lawson holds you in such high regard, Sienna, you really should visit her more often."

Danica, clearing her throat, responded gently, "Ivy, let's leave Sienna and me to manage our own affairs."

Ivy, taken aback by Danica's directness, chose not to argue and invited the Lawsons to sit down.

Danica said, "Sienna, come sit next to me."

As Julian walked by, he casually said, "Mrs. Wells, you look stunning."

At the sound of his voice, Sienna felt rooted to the spot.

Seeing her speechless, Rhett said on her behalf, "Thank you for your kind words, Mr. Lawson."

Julian answered at his leisure, "Well, it's well known your wife is quite the beauty."

Before her accident, Sienna had been the youngest principal dancer at the National Theatre and hailed from a distinguished family. Many men were envious of Rhett for marrying her.

As she tried to recall where she had heard Julian's voice before, Sienna suspected he was the man who had slept with her. However, she vaguely remembered that man's voice being deeper.

She quickly dismissed the thought, though. It was ludicrous to think Julian would have sex with her for money.

As everyone settled into their seats, Natalia attempted to sit next to Ivy but was intercepted by Tricia.

"Since the Lawsons are sitting here, you should find another seat," Tricia said.

Natalia was close to Ivy. Usually, she would have sat with the Wells family, but today was different.

Natalia gave an awkward smile and said to Ivy, "I'll be just over there, Ivy. Let me know if you need me."

Tricia curtly added, "Don't worry, there are enough attendants here."

Watching Natalia move to another table, Sienna couldn't help but feel a twinge of satisfaction.

Tricia was not fond of Natalia and rarely had a say in the Wells family matters. This gathering presented a unique opportunity.

Ivy sat at the head of the table, flanked on the left by Danica and then Sienna. Julian sat next to Sienna, followed by Rhett's father, while Rhett himself was seated farther down.

Julian's commanding presence made Sienna slightly uncomfortable.

Holding her hand, Danica said warmly, "Remember the two children you helped? They're returning to the country soon."