Ann squeezed Leonore's hand. "Leonore, don't make such a big deal out of it."

Leonore could only stare at her in admiration. Ann was unbelievably composed. It would take her years of practice to reach that level of calm.

Ann then turned to her mother. "And you, Mother, I know you love to show off, but I'd prefer to keep this low-key. Please don't go telling everyone about the signet."

It was a classic case of reverse psychology. By telling her mother not to spread the word, she was ensuring the news would be all over town by morning.

Leonore, finally recovering from her shock, looked at Ann. "By the way, Ann, once you receive the signet, could you let me see it? I've only ever read about them in books."

"Of course," Ann nodded. "I'll not only let you see it, I'll introduce you to Miss Palmer personally."

Leonore gasped. "Really?"

This was Celia Palmer she was talking about. Leonore had only hoped to exchange a few words with her at the tea party. She never dreamed Ann would offer a personal introduction. It was an unexpected and delightful surprise. Ann was so generous.

"Yes," Ann smiled. "You're my best friend, after all."

Leonore threw her arms around Ann. "Ann, thank you!"

"You're welcome," Ann replied with a gentle smile. "It's nothing."

Leonore putted back, her eyes shining. "Theard Miss Palmer doesn't have any friends in Eldermere. You're the first. If you introduce me to her, I'll be the

second."

She was already lost in a fantasy of becoming best friends with Celia.

Ann kept her smile in place, but inwardly she was sneering at Leonore's foolishness. Celia's infamous temper was known far and wide. Even if she made the introduction, Celia wouldn't give Leonore a second glance. This idiot actually thought she could befriend Celia Palmer? What a daydreamer.

Ann gave a small, corrective laugh. "No, Leonore, you're mistaken. I'm not the first. I believe I'm the second."

Leonore blinked, confused. "Ann, are you saying you're not Miss Palmer's first friend in Eldermere?"

"That's right," Ann confirmed. "I'm not."

Leonore's curiosity was piqued. "Then who is?" Whoever managed to become Celia's first friend in Valerium must be someone incredible.

Ann replied, "Actually, Miss Palmer's first friend here is my sister."

"Your sister?" Leonore's mind stalled for a moment. "Ann, are you talking about Freya Gonzales?"

"Yes," Ann said, taking a sip of water. "Even though, my sister grew up in the countryside, and I have no idea how she ever crossed paths with Miss Palmer, My grandmother and

mother both told me that they're very good friends. In fact, Miss Palmer knew my sister before she knew me."