Chapter 237
The garden was peaceful, the lanterns casting soft light on the flowers, the laughter from the house drifting out like music. I leaned into Dafa, watching Lilith show Grandmother Halton her paintings. For a moment, everything felt perfect.
Then the back door opened.
Mrs. Minerva Halton stepped out, her silk dress shimmering in the lantern light, her hair perfectly pinned, her lips curved into a smile that didn't reach her eyes. She looked around the garden like she was surveying a battlefield, cataloging weaknesses.
"Mother," she said smoothly, crossing to Grandmother Halton. "I didn't realize we had guests."
Grandmother Halton's smile tightened. "Minerva. I thought you weren't joining us tonight."
"I changed my mind." Minerva's eyes swept over Lilith, who had gone very still, her phone clutched in her hands. "I see we have... company."
Lilith stood, her face pale but her chin lifted. "Mrs. Halton."
