Chapter 61
Chapter 61:
“Austin, we’ve been waiting for you,” Byron said warmly. He glanced between Austin and Brinley, then gestured toward her. “And this must be Brinley. Please, come inside p>
Brinley followed Austin through the grand entrance. As they crossed the corridor, she noticed a handful of figures lingering behind pillars, peeking at them with curious eyes.
Among them stood a woman in a designer suit, whispering to a young man while stealing glances at Brinley.
Thanks to Miguel’s notes, Brinley recognized her at once: Carolyn Moore, the wife of Ryder Moore, Austin’s second eldest brother. Beside her stood her son, Corbett Moore.
The living room was already crowded.
At the center, seated in the main chair, was an older man with silvering hair—Westley Moore, the family patriarch.
At Westley’s side sat Austin’s eldest sister, Briseis Moore, elegant in a refined dress.
“Dad.” Austin approached Westley and offered a slight nod in greeting.
Brinley moved to follow with her own greeting, but before she could speak, Carolyn let out a sharp, affected exclamation. “Oh? So this is Austin’s new wife? She certainly looks young. But I heard she was married before p>
The room seemed to freeze.
Westley frowned, but he said nothing.
𝗥eа𝘥 𝗐i𝘁ho𝘂𝗍 𝘪𝗇𝗍еrr𝘂𝘱𝘁𝘪оոѕ o𝘯
Brinley’s smile faded as she turned to respond, but Austin spoke first.
“What do you mean by that, Carolyn?” His voice carried a dangerous edge. Then, more firmly, he added, “Brinley is my wedded wife p>
Carolyn stiffened, embarrassment flashing across her face before she forced a smile. “Austin, I only meant it out of concern p>
“There’s no need for your concern,” Austin replied, guiding Brinley to an empty seat. “We handle our own affairs p>
An awkward silence settled over the room.
Rebuffed, Carolyn pressed her lips together and didn’t dare push further. In her mind, she dismissed his defense as nothing more than pride.
Their marriage had been a family arrangement, after all. How much real affection could there be?
Austin had always been aloof with women. How could he possibly care deeply for Brinley so soon?
The others stayed quiet too, each nursing their own thoughts.
Carolyn simmered with resentment.
It was Briseis who finally broke the tension. “Come now. We’re all family. That’s enough.” She turned to Brinley with a composed smile. “Brinley, since it’s your first time here, try the coffee I just brewed p>
Brinley lifted her cup politely. Naturally discerning, she could already tell this gathering would be a challenge.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries, she signaled the servants to bring in the prepared gifts.
Soon, more than a dozen beautifully wrapped boxes were carried in and arranged neatly in the corner, drawing everyone’s attention at once.