Chapter 232
232
Third Person’s POV
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Adelaide smiled and said, “Since everyone likes my friend’s oil paintings so much, if I said no to selling, you’d surely complain about me behind my back.”
“No, no,” Minister of Royal Military Affairs, Elias, laughed and then said seriously, “Even if you don’t sell, no one would complain. I’d be the first to speak up if anyone bad–mouthed you.”
The ladies exchanged glances.
They knew Adelaide had military merits, but as a she–wolf, they doubted if royal officials truly valued her.
Yet Elias’s tone was so earnest that those who had gossiped about Adelaide with Madison now regretted it.
If their words got out and offended her, it could cause trouble for their mates.
Lycan Erasmus looked at Adelaide meaningfully and pointed to a painting. “Adelaide, I’ll just take this one.” Adelaide curtseyed slightly. “If you like it, take it. I can’t accept money from you–it’s a gift.”
Lycan Erasmus shook his head. “No, I insist on buying it. If I take it as a gift, how can you not give one to Cyrus and the other Royal Council members?”
Everyone laughed and said, “We’ll pay. You can accept it as a gift.”
“How can you afford it when I can’t?” Lycan Erasmus asked Adelaide, “How much for this one?”
Adelaide replied, “Then I’ll set a friendly price–ten thousand dollars each. Everyone here can take one if they like.”
Everyone expected Adelaide to set a high price–Mr. Neil’s paintings were incredibly precious, likely starting at 100,000 dollars.
But when she announced the price as ten thousand dollars, the atmosphere erupted. Some people were so excited that they let out involuntary gasps of delight.
Suddenly, a hoarse voice broke through, “Hey, don’t take my paintings! I’ll take these three! Don’t push me -I’ll fall! Quick, Abigail, help me get the paintings inside!”
It was Doug Watson, arms wide to protect three paintings, one of which was the one Cyrus had admired.
As they nudged each other, Doug called to his granddaughter outside.
Abigail acted swiftly, rushing in to roll up the paintings Doug wanted.
Cyrus could only watch helplessly as Doug secured his choices, casting envious glances at his mate for not helping.
Guests swarmed to pick paintings. Seeing Lance hadn’t chosen any, Elias asked, “Aren’t there any you like? Ten thousand’s a bargain.”
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Lance, arms crossed and smiling, said, “You all go first. As Adelaide’s future mate, I’ll just ask Mr. Neil for a
new one.”
This remark drew numerous disapproving glances–just like his mother, he loved to show off as well!
The ladies, though envious of Adelaide’s success today, understood Craig was using his reputation to protect her.
With Craig’s favor, officials valuing art would now court Adelaide’s favor.
Art lovers like Doug would seek her company for future Neil paintings.
The attitudes of Lycan Erasmus, Cyrus, and Elias were clear; their support for Adelaide extended beyond Neil’s connection.
She’d risen from a disgraced she–wolf to royal darling..
After the buying frenzy, Cedric was introduced to Erasmus and officials.
Adelaide deliberately presented Cedric as the future heir of the Frostfang Pack.
Though small in stature, he stood ramrod straight, reminiscent of the former Alpha Bentley of the Frostfang Pack.
Adelaide then guided Priscilla and other she–wolves to the side hall. Conversations became pleasant, with compliments aplenty.
Adelaide skillfully navigated the exchanges.
Priscilla scrutinized Adelaide for a long while. After today, she found Adelaide less annoying.
Had it not been for Adelaide’s future role as Lance’s mate, Priscilla might have even liked her.
But that identity clash was inevitable.
In her eyes, her son was exceptional. Even princesses seemed inadequate, let alone Adelaide.
Priscilla snapped back–Adelaide was almost winning her over.
She should be angry. Today was her banquet, yet Adelaide stole the spotlight.
That innocent smile must be hiding smugness.
Especially those upturned eyes, truly captivating…
“Priscilla, do have some tea,” Adelaide’s voice interrupted.
Priscilla forced a smile. “Alright.”
Adelaide sipped her tea, hiding her amusement.
She found Priscilla quite interesting–her arrogance, willfulness, and love for showing off were all genuine, making her easier to deal with than someone hiding behind a mask.
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