"Well, that's all thanks to Grandma's good genes."

Keira was already in a great mood, but hearing Caitlin's words made her even happier.

Amanda chimed in, “Our Freya isn't just beautiful, she's got a silver tongue too. She's a natural for business."

Keira nodded with a smile. “Looks like the Gonzales family finally has someone to carry on the legacy."

Ann happened to be walking over just in time to catch Keira's last sentence.

Hmph!

What did she mean by "finally has someone"? Did her own granddaughter not count as an heir to the Gonzales family?

So unfair.

Ann pushed aside her annoyance, put on a pleasant smile, and joined them. "Grandma, Mom, Freya."

"Ann, you're here," Keira greeted her.

Just then, the butler hurried over and whispered something in Keira's ear.

Keira nodded, then turned to Caitlin. "Freya, I need to step out for a moment. Stick close to your aunt and get to know everyone." She glanced at Amanda. "Amanda, I'm leaving Freya in your care."

"Don't worry, Mom. I'll look after her."

With that, Keira followed the butler out.

Amanda and Ann led Caitlin to the front hall to welcome the arriving guests.

Suddenly, Amanda's eyes lit up. She grabbed Ann's arm. "Ann, look! It's Mr. Slime and Mrs. Andie!"

Ann immediately looked toward the entrance.

Keira was definitely playing favorites.

Mr. Slime and Mrs. Andie were Fairhaven's wealthiest power couple, practically royalty in the city, and their presence drew every eye in the ballroom.

Keira hadn't even invited them to Ann's own debutante ball at eighteen, but now that Caitlin was back, she'd pulled out all the stops-even Mr. Slime and Mrs. Andie were here.

Amanda turned to Caitlin, her tone full of good-aunt warmth as she explained, “Freya, Mr. Slime and Mrs. Andie are from Fairhaven's royal family—they're very close friends with your grandma."

Then Amanda smiled. "Freya, since you don't speak French, how about letting Ann greet them for you? Ann, go on!"

Being given the honor of greeting such distinguished guests in public would help cement Ann's place in high society. The party might seem like it was for Caitlin, but the real star was Ann.

After all, Caitlin couldn't even speak French.

Just wait. By the end of tonight, everyone in the room would know how exceptional her precious daughter was-and Caitlin would be left with nothing but embarrassment.

"Of course, Mom." Ann beamed and walked confidently toward Mr. Slime and Mrs. Andie, brimming with pride.

So what if Keira had invited them to support Caitlin? Caitlin could hardly hold her own here. In the end, she'd just be paving the way for Ann to shine.

Ann stopped in front of their VIP guests and, in flawless French, said, "Mr. Slime, Mrs. Andie, good evening. I'm Ann, granddaughter of the Gonzales family."

She gestured toward Caitlin. "And this is Freya, my grandmother's long-lost sister. She doesn't speak French, so I'll welcome you on her behalf."

At that, the other guests exchanged glances, their expressions complicated.

The future heir of the Gonzales family couldn't even speak French? Not even as well as an outsider. No matter how graceful she looked, you couldn't change what was in her bones.

"Miss Templeton really is a cut above."

"The Gonzales family's future heiress is all looks, no substance."

"Seems like the family's future rests with Miss Templeton."

"You can't expect a country girl to measure up to a blueblood."

Amanda and Ann's faces were bright with satisfaction as whispers swirled around the room.

Especially Amanda-she knew the real humiliation for Caitlin was yet to come.

After Ann's introduction, Mr. Slime and Mrs. Andie approached Caitlin. Mrs. Andie spoke first, still in French, "Miss Gonzales, it's so wonderful to finally meet you. Keira has searched for you for years, and now her wish has come true! I wish you a life filled with peace and happiness."

Ann purposely hung back, making no move to translate, letting Caitlin stand there while the room watched, waiting for her embarrassment.

After a few seconds, as if just remembering, Ann covered her mouth in mock apology. "Oh, Freya, I forgot you don't speak French! Let me translate="

"That won't be necessary," Caitlin replied calmly.

She stepped forward, took Mrs. Andie's hand, and in perfect, elegant French, said, “Mrs. Andie, it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Freya, also known as Caitlin. Thank you for your kind wishes, and may you always stay young and beautiful!"