Chapter 277 Usurped The Affection Rightfully Hers
Jayden’s arrival marked the start of the dinner.
This was Chelsea’s birthday dinner, attended only by her closest relatives, making it a modest gathering rather than a grand affair.
Jayden’s prominent political status meant that a more elaborate celebration would likely draw unwanted attention and spark harmful gossip. A simple family meal like this one
was more suitable.
Everyone enjoyed a warm and cordial atmosphere throughout the meal.
Following the meal, Corrine brought out the gift she had selected with care.
Chelsea’s face lit up with joy and a wide smile upon seeing the gift.
Trying to contain his surprise, Gregory inquired, “Is that the blue diamond from last night’s Forreal auction?”
Corrine nodded. “Yes.”
Gregory quietly appreciated the grand gesture of wealth.
“Clearly, generosity runs in the Ford family,” a sarcastic voice remarked.
That voice belonged to Gregory’s sister, Callie Hoffman, two years younger than Corrine.
Callie and Corrine had a history of rivalry, both open and in secret, stretching back years.
Gregory’s expression darkened slightly, his eyes flashing with brief irritation. “It’s Aunt Chelsea’s birthday. Let’s all get along.”
“Why do you always take her side, Gregory? Remember, I am your actual family!”
Callie’s tone sharpened on the words “actual family“.
Her statement wasn’t just for Gregory; it was also a jab at Chelsea.
Chelsea was Callie’s aunt by blood, but she tended to show favoritism toward Corrine.
Chapter 277 Usurped The Affections Rightly Hers
Not just Chelsea, it seemed to Callie that her whole family’s preference leaned unfairly toward Corrine.
Convinced that Corrine had usurped the affection rightfully hers, Callie had harbored resentment for years.
Her comments instantly charged the dinner’s atmosphere with tension.
Callie’s remarks were clearly aimed at Corrine, and Jayden, visibly irritated, swiftly came to her defense. “Corrine belongs to the Ford family.”
He implied that Corrine’s presence at Chelsea’s birthday dinner was because she was a Ford and Jayden’s niece, not because of any obligation to the Hoffmans.
His voice was calm, yet it carried a distinct edge.
Callie had always been afraid of Jayden.
Seeing his subtle anger, Callie sat quietly in her seat, her face ashen.
In that moment, Jules let out a soft laugh. “Callie, nobody forced you to be here. Now that you’ve come, try to enjoy the evening instead of causing yourself distress.”
Her attempt to humiliate Corrine publicly was a clear provocation.
Callie knew that Jules was always quick to support Corrine. Frustration evident, she balled her hands into fists, struggling to contain her upset.
Feeling the tension escalate, Gregory rose to smooth things over. “Aunt Chelsea, please forgive Callie. She’s still young and doesn’t always understand the impact of her words.”
Considering Callie was her niece, Chelsea preferred not to make things difficult for her.
Chelsea then redirected attention away from the dispute, signaling for the desserts to be
served.
As they settled into the sofas for casual conversation, Chelsea brought up a charity auction dinner planned by Calan’s wife.
“Calan has rented a yacht for the event, and we’re supposed to stay overnight. Corrine, come along with me; it would be nice to have company,” Chelsea said.
This invitation made Callie’s frown deepen.
Keeping company, just the two of them?
What about Callie herself?
Chapter 277 Usurped The Affection Rightfully Hers
Jealousy tinged her voice. “Aunt Chelsea, what about me? Isn’t it unfair to leave me out?”
“Knock it off,” Gregory warned, his voice low.
Callie tilted her head defiantly. “Why should I listen to you…”
She was interrupted by the butler, who entered briskly. “Mrs. Ford, Miss Holland has brought an additional gift for you.”
