Rumor had it that Mrs. Vaughn was throwing a lavish birthday party for her granddaughter Vivian this year.

Serena decided not to dwell on it anymore. She was certain she wouldn't see Eleanor tonight.

At the moment, she was heading to the boutique to meet her mother, determined to look absolutely stunning for the evening.

Meanwhile, Eleanor returned home with her daughter. She began dressing Evelyn in a sparkling blue princess dress, which made the little girl twirl with delight. Her long hair was braided into a crown and topped with a headband-she looked every bit the fairytale princess.

Eleanor herself stood before her wardrobe, pulling out a simple yet elegant plaid dress she'd bought for occasions like this. A thin belt cinched her waist, accentuating her slender figure.

It was the perfect choice-neither too formal, nor too casual, and showed just the right amount of respect for their hosts.

"Mom, let's go, let's go!" Evelyn chimed, already dressed in her little party dress, looking like a miniature royal.

The birthday celebration was being held at Xavier's estate. As Eleanor drove through the gates of the neighborhood, she intentionally took a roundabout route, but Evelyn still recognized the way.

"Mom, isn't this the road to our old house?" Evelyn asked from the back seat.

Eleanor's breath caught for a moment, but she quickly smiled. "That's right, sweetheart. Tonight we're going to Mr. Vaughn's place for the party."

lan's luxurious estate had been her gilded cage for six long years—she had no desire to revisit those memories.

When they finally pulled into the Vaughn family's driveway, it was already half past six. The evening sky was still tinged with gold and rose, and the garden was festooned with colorful balloons and streamers. Uniformed staff bustled about, greeting guests as they arrived.

"There you are," Xavier called, dressed in a dark shirt and tailored slacks that gave him an easy, relaxed air.

"Mr. Vaughn, look! I brought a gift for Vivian!" Evelyn announced, holding up her bag.

Xavier grinned. "Vivian's been waiting for you all afternoon. Go on in and find her!"

Beaming, Evelyn scampered inside with her present. Xavier's gaze lingered on Eleanor. "That dress looks wonderful on you tonight," he said warmly.

Eleanor offered a polite smile. "Thank you." Then she held out a gift box. "I brought something for Vivian as well."

"Didn't Evelyn already bring a gift?" Xavier asked, a little surprised.

Eleanor's smile deepened. "That one's from her. This is from me it's only right to show my appreciation."

Xavier realized she was returning the favor for the birthday bracelet he'd given her before.

"Thank you," he said softly, accepting the gift.

Just then, another car pulled up. Out stepped Gina and her daughter Serena. The moment Serena spotted Eleanor, her face twisted in shock and disbelief.

What was Eleanor doing here? Had Xavier really invited her? And she actually had the nerve to show up?

Gina, too, was surprised to see Eleanor, but when she noticed Evelyn, her expression softened. She was genuinely pleased her granddaughter could join the festivities.

Xavier came over to greet them. "Aunt Gina, Serena-glad you could make it. Come inside and get comfortable.”

"I'd like a word with Eleanor. Why don't you show Serena in?" Gina said to Xavier.

He gestured for Serena to go ahead with him. Though she was dying to know what her mother wanted to say to Eleanor, she had no choice but to follow Xavier inside.

Eleanor watched Gina approach and greeted her quietly, "Hello, Aunt Gina."

"Eleanor, I didn't expect to see you here. Does that mean Evelyn's here too?" Gina asked with a smile.

"She is," Eleanor replied with a nod.

Gina thought to herself that a lively party like this was exactly where her granddaughter belonged.