Episode 62
“Mm.” Beside Billie sat Kailee, dressed in a gown that complemented Billie’s. They resembled a mother and daughter rather than aunt and niece from afar. Kailee crossed her arms, a smug grin spreading across her face. “So, where’s Elijah? Off chasing after Sandra again and leaving you behind?” Unperturbed, Elizabeth found herself a chair and settled in comfortably, replying nonchalantly, “It doesn’t bother me. Elijah can spend time with whomever he pleases. Much like his buddy Albin, who’s always seen with a lady on each arm. Who’s to manage that, right?”
Kailee’s expression shifted dramatically, reflecting a storm of emotions beneath her poised facade. Her infatuation with Albin was no secret. It had been a source of amusement for their elite peers for years. Kailee, often teased mercilessly, seethed with pent-up frustration. Unable to refute the unspoken truths, Kailee abruptly steered the conversation in another direction, her voice cutting through the air. “Elizabeth, what on earth are you wearing?”
She scrutinized Elizabeth’s attire with disdain. “The Norris family holds a name for elegance, yet here you are, dressed so plainly. How is it that living with Elijah hasn’t refined your tastes even slightly? You still exude that air of a commoner.” Elizabeth was dressed simply, in a brown knit sweater from a popular retail brand, matched with beige wide-leg pants that embraced a trendy yet minimalist fashion. Her entire ensemble was modest, especially when contrasted with the opulence of the Norris residence, priced at less than a thousand dollars.
A memory of Elijah’s earlier advice flashed through Elizabeth’s mind, a premonition of this very moment. As regret began to creep in, Elijah himself entered the room. “Kailee, show some decency. She’s your cousin-in-law,” he interjected with a dismissive air, not even granting Kailee a glance but rather turning to address Billie casually. “Mom.” “Elijah…” Kailee’s demeanor instantly crumbled into one of alarm upon hearing Elijah’s voice. Of all the family, he was the one she dreaded most. Undeterred, Elijah pressed on, his voice tinged with a firmness that resonated in the room.
“Did you hear me?” he demanded. “Yes,” Kailee mumbled, her head bowed in reluctant submission. It was only then that Elijah’s tone softened, his gaze shifting to admire Elizabeth’s poise. He smiled, “It’s only those lacking in self-assurance who hide behind expensive clothes.
