Chapter 1400

She never imagined Aurora would end up with the most capable man of all. If word got out, would anyone even believe it? But whether they did or not, it no longer mattered.

“How can you be sure?” Grace gripped Tessa’s arm, afraid she had made a mistake.

Even now, her eyes couldn’t hide the excitement burning beneath the surface. Clearly, she was pleased. After all, what mother wouldn’t want such a powerful son-in-law? Especially someone like Lucas.

His family’s strength was second to none in Ravenshore. In other matters, it was no different. To put it bluntly, a single stomp from the Carters could shake the whole city.

An old and established family like theirs was not one the Walton Corporation could ever afford to provoke.

Tessa didn’t hold back about what she had seen at the banquet.

“I attended the Carter family banquet, invited by a friend. That’s when I saw Aurora—everyone gathered around her as though she were the center of the universe, calling her the future matriarch.”

Her voice dripped with envy and bitterness, and the look in her eyes only sharpened it. The words cut straight into Grace’s heart. If her good daughter had hidden Lucas’ identity, what was her motive? Was she afraid Grace might try to use him? The thought was laughable.

“And did you speak to Aurora?” Grace asked, hope flickering in her voice.

But Tessa shook her head. “No, Mom. Didn’t I tell you? Aurora was like the center of the universe, I couldn’t get close to her, let alone speak with her. Besides, both Mr. Philip and Lucas’ parents were clearly on her side.”

Grace’s eyes darkened. It was obvious now—Aurora must have already met the family long ago. That much couldn’t be denied. And yet, if not for Tessa telling her, she would have been completely in the dark. In Aurora’s eyes, what did she count for? Did she consider her as her mother?

“Mom, are you alright? You don’t look well,” Tessa asked, feigning concern.

Grace forced a faint smile. “I’m fine. Why? Is there a problem?”

Tessa pressed her lips together, her face full of distrust. “Mom, if something’s wrong, you have to tell me. If you keep bottling it up, I’ll worry about you.”

Grace waved her off. “I said I’m fine. Go on with your own business. I want to be alone for a while.”

Regret flickered across Tessa’s face as she put on another show of concern. “Then please take care of yourself. If anything happens, tell me right away. I’ll come immediately, no matter what.”

“I know.”

A warmth stirred in Grace’s chest. Yes, Tessa was still the most considerate. The contrast was stark—how could there be any doubt which daughter she should lean on?

After Tessa closed the door behind her, Grace sat alone in her chair, lost in thought. She stared blankly for a long time before finally picking up her phone, her gaze falling on Aurora’s contact.

The last time they had spoken was the day Aurora left the Walton Corporation. Nearly half a year had passed since then. Their chat still ended on Aurora’s last message about having packed up her office. There was nothing more. No other words between mother and daughter.

Grace’s fingers tightened slowly around the phone, a wave of bitterness rising in her chest.