Chapter 363 Masks of Courtesy, Eyes of Judgment
Finished
The moment Tristan’s name came up, Madam Teresa’s eyes lit up even more. “Wonderful, wonderful. I’ll be sure to prepare two proper gifts for you both. Otherwise, next time Mr. Sue sees us, he’ll scold us for neglecting the younger generation.”
Just one sentence from Halbert had earned them two luxury gifts. Eliza’s pupils almost dilated from shock.
Isn’t this the same as robbery–just dressed up in civility?
Halbert was truly ruthless.
“Here, this bracelet set alone is worth five million. Let it be a welcome gift for Miss Eliza.”
With a smile, Madam Teresa slipped the pair of gleaming bracelets onto Eliza’s wrists.
Only then did Eliza realize why Halbert had told her not to wear bracelets today.
He had planned this all along.
But just then, a familiar voice called from across the hall.
“Madam Teresa, it’s been so long!”
Halbert’s brows instantly knit together. Madam Teresa’s expression also cooled.
Tracy, radiant in a fitted gown, approached with a practiced curtsy. “Mr. Jimmy, Madam Teresa–good evening.”
In contrast to the warmth they had just shown Eliza, both Mr. Jimmy and Madam Teresa merely gave Tracy a polite nod. Their faces remained unreadable.
Tracy, oblivious—or perhaps pretending to be–continued brightly, “The last time I saw you both was five years ago! Madam Teresa, don’t I look taller now?”
Madam Teresa gave a strained smile. “Yes, Ms. Tracy. You do look a bit taller.”
Being addressed so formally, Tracy pouted. “Madam Teresa, that’s too formal. Back when we were overseas, didn’t you just call me Tracy?”
Madam Teresa simply smiled, offering no reply.
Sensing the lukewarm air, Tracy redirected her attention to Eliza’s wrists.
“If I’m not mistaken, those bracelets are your favorite, Madam Teresa. They’re worth at least a house, aren’t they? You’re so generous. I don’t recall ever getting a gift like that from you.”
The forced jealousy in her tone didn’t win her sympathy. Mr. Jimmy merely chuckled and said lightly, “Madam Teresa only has so many things. If everyone expects a gift, she’ll be bankrupt in no time.”
The words landed like a slap.
Everyone knew what it meant: Don’t push your luck.
Eliza was stunned–Mr. Jimmy had seemed so kind just moments ago. But this… this was brutal.
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wed, 16 JUI
Chapter 363 Masks of Courtesy, Eyes of Judgment
One simple word-“expecting“-and he’d reduced Tracy to a greedy beggar.
Finished
Not far away, Zayden lingered awkwardly, clearly reluctant to be involved. Eliza noticed him but quickly looked away.
Mr. Jimmy, sensing the atmosphere souring, smiled at Halbert. “We’ve got more friends to greet. You young ones enjoy yourselves. Everything tonight’s on us–cat, drink, relax.”
With that, he led Madam Teresa away.
As they walked off, Eliza could just catch Madam Teresa muttering, “That Tracy girl… what was she thinking?”
Tracy either didn’t hear or pretended not to. She turned toward Halbert with a bright smile. “Surprised to see me?”
“You should’ve stayed overseas. Why come back alone?”
Halbert’s tone was cool, bordering on harsh.
Tracy blinked in surprise. He’d always treated her cordially–even if not warmly, at least politely. But now…. he sounded displeased.
“I just wanted to say hello to Mr. Jimmy and Madam Teresa,” she explained with mock innocence. “And there are so many big names here tonight–I wanted to see the excitement. What’s so wrong with that?”
Then, turning dramatically, she called out, “Zayden, come here!”
Zayden hesitated but eventually joined her.
Grabbing his arm, Tracy clung to him sweetly. “My boyfriend studies at Westbrook U. We haven’t seen each other in ages, so I thought I’d drop in on him… and attend the Leaf Corp gala while I’m at it. Don’t be mad, Halbert.”
But Halbert wasn’t angry–he was embarrassed.
She’s making the Sue family look ridiculous again.
Their family had always kept a low profile in public affairs.
But Tracy paraded their name wherever she went, drawing attention like a firecracker at a funeral.
Her arrogant and entitled attitude made her a poor fit for elite occasions like this.
“If you’re just here to see your boyfriend, then go enjoy yourself. But stay out of trouble.”
“Don’t worry, Halbert,” Tracy said sweetly. “I’m just here for fun. I won’t stir up any trouble–especially not for Eliza.”
She flashed Eliza a bright, innocent smile.
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