Chapter 189:
With Brandon setting the tone, nobody dared press further, limiting themselves to a few indirect, cautious hints.
Stealing a glance at Brandon, Millie watched him serve her more food, his expression steady and composed. A quiet realization dawned on her. Despite Brandon’s command over the Watson family, conflicts bubbled beneath the surface—alliances shifting, loyalties uncertain. Tonight, as their marriage still appeared intact to the public, he chose to protect her—he had to. He had done the same earlier, both when Babette brought up the past and just now, when an elder pried about the child.
By the time they entered the dining hall, they had both left their coats at the door. Brandon’s gaze lingered on her, noting the loose sleeves and pants. Even in clothing that concealed her frame, her recent weight loss was impossible to hide. She shivered more often these days. Brandon looked at her and murmured, “Have some more.”
Dinner seemed to slip by in no time at all. Casimir tried digging for information here and there but came up empty every time. The rest of the family had no better luck.
A sudden vibration interrupted the flow—Brandon checked his phone and saw Derek’s name flashing across the screen. He stood and stepped aside to take the call, leaving Millie at the table.
Babette seized the moment, drifting over to Millie once more. She plucked a glass of white wine from a passing tray and offered it with a sly tilt of her head.
“What, is the wine not up to your standards?” Babette teased.
Saying nothing, Millie accepted the glass, brought it to her nose, and inhaled the bouquet. The aroma confirmed it—a high-quality vintage. She let a small sip linger on her tongue and savored the taste.
Babette watched, and then said, “Have another taste. I picked this up in Flesta.”
—it wasn’t easy to get, and it definitely wasn’t cheap.” With a glint in her eye, she added, “It’s also… rather special.”
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That comment drew Millie’s gaze upward, her eyes narrowing slightly in curiosity. Babette only grinned.
“Relax. There’s nothing in it but wine,” she said, a quick laugh escaping her. “Brandon’s nearby—I wouldn’t dare try anything foolish.”
Fixing her gaze on Millie, Babette murmured, “I’m only curious if you can pick out what makes this wine stand out.”
A puzzled look crossed Millie’s face as she took another careful sip. Despite her efforts, nothing beyond the wine’s obvious excellence stood out to her palate.
“I’m sorry, but I can’t tell.” A quiet apology escaped her lips.
Babette let out a light, almost mischievous laugh. “So you really haven’t a clue,” she teased.
Confusion swept over Millie. Babette’s attitude tonight made no sense, and neither did her cryptic comments.
“If there’s something I should know, just tell me,” Millie replied quietly.
Babette only offered a mysterious shake of her head. Instead, she gestured again, inviting Millie to try the wine once more.
.
.
.