Eartha pondered for a moment before getting out of bed and walking into her walk-in closet.

Half an hour later, leaning on a maid's arm, she stood outside the Dashiell family estate.

Her maid stepped forward to state their business, prompting the estate security to call the main house and ask Fiona Dashiell for instructions.

At that moment, Fiona was sitting in the living room chatting with Tina. Wearing her reading glasses, the elderly woman had the latest bridal magazine resting on her

lap.

Fiona pointed at a strapless gown in the magazine. "Tina, don't you think this one suits Lizetta better? She has a gorgeous figure, a radiant complexion, and an effortlessly elegant vibe. This sweetheart neckline and cinched waist would make her look both innocent and incredibly sultry. What's that trendy phrase the kids use these days?"

Tina smiled, leaning over to take a look.

"The phrase is 'angelic allure,' Madam."

"Yes, exactly! Our Lizetta is absolutely perfect for that style. Bookmark this page, I'll show it to her later."

Following her instructions, Tina quickly grabbed a pen and jotted it down.

Ever since Lizetta returned to Zion City, Fiona had been praying for her and Remington to get back together.

With nothing else to occupy her time over the past few days, the eager grandmother had even started picking out wedding dresses in advance.

Just then, a maid walked in. "Madam, there's a Mrs. West at the gates. She says she's the young madam's stepmother and wishes to see you. Should I let her in?"

Fiona glanced at Tina, a slight frown forming on her face.

"What is she doing here?"

Fiona knew exactly who Eartha was. When Lizetta was first reclaimed by the Madden family,

Fiona had been worried and commissioned a background check on them, learning that Lizetta's biological father had remarried.

Rumor had it that this new wife was the former best friend of Lizetta's late mother, and she supposedly had a stellar reputation in Tranquil Meadows.

But Fiona had lived long enough to know that surface-level reputations couldn't always be trusted.

Still, since the woman was at her doorstep, it was only proper to see her. She turned to Tina.

"Go bring her in."

Tina nodded, stepped out, and quickly escorted Eartha inside.

Fiona was wearing a loose,

modernized linen dress draped with

a light cashmere shawl. She sat regally on the sofa, her silver hair pinned up in a

at ben held by a" single ebony hairpin. Without saying a word, she exuded an intimidating aura of absolute authority.

Her gaze swept over Eartha. It only took one glance at the woman's red-rimmed eyes and tragic expression for Fiona to figure out exactly what kind of person she was dealing with.

"Mrs. West, there was no need to bring so many gifts," Fiona remarked flatly.

Eartha's maid was holding several expensive gift bags. Eartha forced a pale smile. "Madam Dashiell, you practically raised Lizetta. When her father and I arrived in Zion City, we should have come to pay our respects immediately, but....."

Eartha let out a troubled sigh before continuing.

"Lizetta's grandfather is quite stubborn. He's still holding a grudge over what happened between Lizetta and Mr. Dashiell in the past. As his juniors we didn't dare visit rashly for fear of upsetting him. It's incredibly gracious of you not to blame us our lack of manners. How could possibly come empty-handed?"

Fiona furrowed her brow and waved a hand dismissively.

"If Nelson is still angry with Remington and doesn't want our families interacting, why are you going against his wishes? Are you trying to upset him on purpose?

"Or are you hoping he'll find out and direct his anger at the Dashiell family as well? That's a rather nasty scheme you've got there. Take your things and leave una, see the guest out."