Gilbert waited for a while, but when Claire still didn't appear, he turned his head and couldn't help but chuckle.
There she was, standing off to the side, hesitating like a skittish deer. "Does she really need me to come fetch her?"
Amanda was busy chatting politely with a wealthy lady nearby, and no new guests had arrived yet, so Gilbert walked straight toward Claire.
"Claire, what are you doing standing there?"
"Oh, Mr. Watson, there are still a few flower baskets that haven't been set up. I was just about to check on them," she replied quickly, turning to slip away.
"Stop." Gilbert grabbed her arm. "Butler Lo is already handling the flowers. That's not your concern. Come with me to greet the guests at the gate."
"That's… probably not a good idea," Claire said with a forced smile. "I think Emma would be more suitable. She's just sitting idle in the living room, you should ask her instead."
"No. It has to be you." Gilbert's tone left no room for argument.
