Two days passed in a blur, and before Mrs. Gladstone knew it, the day of the private party had arrived. She had waited until the last moment, hoping Loretta would eventually return her call, but her phone remained silent.
With no other choice, Mrs. Gladstone attended the event with Isabella only.
The moment they arrived, Mrs. Gladstone was greeted by several familiar faces. The gathering was far more exclusive than an ordinary social event, filled with women from wealthy and influential families.
When someone asked about Loretta, Mrs. Gladstone quickly put on a concerned expression. "Loretta is still recovering from what happened at her wedding," she explained. "She hasn't fully regained her strength, so I thought it would be better for her to rest at home."
The women immediately expressed concern.
"Poor girl."
"I heard she collapsed during the reception."
"What is really the matter? Is it still because of the fire incident?"
