Vince's voice rang out clear and strong, instantly drawing every gaze in the ballroom.

Even Larkin looked up, his clouded eyes sharpening with interest.

For a few seconds, the room fell silent, the low hum of conversation vanishing as everyone took in the scene. Then, a curious voice piped up, "Whose daughter is that? I've never seen her before-she's stunning."

"Absolutely. She's got such grace, too. Do you think she's Vince's girlfriend?"

Sallie's face soured at once. "Would you all stop speculating?"

She might not care for Jessica herself, but that didn't mean she'd let anyone imply Jessica was attached to another man-Jessica was still Timothy's wife, after all.

Vince turned to Jessica, polite as ever. "Come with me, let's go greet my grandfather."

wasn't just because of her grandmother, though that thought did cross his mind. In the end,

Larkin called, beckoning Jessica

with a small nod, followed Vince

before Larkin, then stepped aside,

in public, spoke up for her. "Grandfather, this

over right away, instead joining Mr. Smith near the far

had been from Mr. Smith; he and his mother had arrived at the manor earlier that afternoon, so

noticed Jessica. With her calm, serene presence, she seemed to quiet the very air

face. "Tim, you and Vince are close-do you know if that

of interest in Mr. Smith's eyes, and his expression

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