Chapter 243
Donovan responded with hesitation, "I can't be certain about that. Only my grandfather would know the truth. If he believes Evelyn is related, I'll order a DNA test right away."
Establishing blood relations proved complicated since Donovan's cousin's parents had passed, eliminating the possibility of direct parental verification. This could potentially make the DNA results inconclusive.
Watching Evelyn's excessive flattery, the butler sighed in disappointment. "Even if she wasn't raised as a Kensington, no true descendant would behave so shamelessly. She clearly doesn't value the Hartleys who raised her."
His words held undeniable truth. Even Seraphina, known for her charm, never stooped to such obsequious behavior. This only deepened Donovan's distaste for Evelyn, who valued superficial charm over genuine character.
As Evelyn fawned over Liam, Seraphina watched with growing irritation, her jaw clenched tight. A whisper came from beside her: "Miss Kensington, you must find a way to remove Evelyn from this event. There's no proof of her claims yet. Just look at that smug expression - it's unbearable!"
Seraphina snapped, "Do you think I'm blind? I don't need reminders about the obvious."
Her voice dripped with contempt as she continued, "I've no interest in competing for grandfather's attention. I've prepared a masterpiece as his birthday gift. Even if Evelyn turns out to be family, I'll show her she can't compare."
Thinking of the exquisite artwork Olivia had spent weeks creating, Seraphina's confidence swelled, her chin lifting with pride.
The gift presentation arrived. Seraphina deliberately chose to go last, ensuring her offering would be the grand finale. She wanted this moment to leave an indelible impression on Liam.
When Seraphina unveiled her present, the room fell into awed silence. On an emerald velvet tray sat a breathtakingly carved phoenix, its wings outstretched mid-flight. The craftsmanship was so exquisite that individual feathers appeared to flutter, as if the mythical bird might take flight at any moment.
Such artistry was rare, perhaps beyond even master craftsmen. While Seraphina didn't claim to have made it herself, guests praised her thoughtfulness and dedication. Even Donovan couldn't hide his admiration. "Grandfather has always treasured such pieces. This will bring him immense joy."
With regal poise, Seraphina replied, "For our grandfather, only the best will do. His happiness makes every effort worthwhile."
Her statement came with a pointed glance at Evelyn, throwing down an unspoken gauntlet.
Evelyn had brought a gift for Alistair. But Seraphina's extraordinary present had raised the stakes, forcing Evelyn to reconsider how to make her own offering stand out. Her frustration was palpable.
She seethed that Liam had attended alone without securing her an invitation. Seraphina's obvious interest in him stoked Evelyn's insecurities.
Evelyn's gift - mere health supplements prepared by an assistant - paled in comparison to Seraphina's phoenix.
Donovan noticed Evelyn's discomfort and shook his head slightly at her poor manners. When Liam saw the carving, recognition flashed across his face, his hands trembling slightly. The style was unmistakably Olivia's. But how was this possible?