Laura’s Victory Second Chance

Chapter 18

Emma’s voice was cold as she confronted Laura. “What’s there to verify? You think I’d use your money? Let’s just

this over with. We’re not here to put on a show for our guests. Let’s not waste everyone’s time.”

She hoped Laura would back down, but Laura stood firm. “Mom, this is necessary. Please understand,” she said, her voice steady. “James, proceed with the check.”

James nodded respectfully. “Of course, Ms. Godfrey. It might take a moment, though.”

“I’m in no rush,” Laura replied calmly.

As James went to verify the card’s balance, Emma’s nerves showed. She was sweating, thinking about the damage control needed if her spending came to light. She wondered how she would face the social circle or David.

“Mom, you look stressed. Didn’t spend any of the money, did you?” Laura asked, her voice sugary sweet but with an undercurrent of challenge.

“Of course not! I have my own money,” Emma retorted, dabbing her forehead.

“Of course. The Sharpes are well-off, Laura said, her smile laced with sarcasm. “Let’s wait for the results. It’s good. to have witnesses.

With the Godfrey name behind her, Laura had shifted from a perceived country girl to a golden phoenix shining in the spotlight.

Elara was kicking herself for underestimating Laura. She’d pegged Laura as the one with the noble lineage, but now it was clear who the true gem was.

If she’d sided with Robert about dating Laura, Laura could’ve been her daughter-in-law, and that 700 million would’ve been a family treasure. Even a posthumous connection to Alistair Godfrey would’ve been a major status boost.

But then Elara remembered Laura’s affection for Robert. A few sweet words from him, and Laura would likely return to his side. That thought was a comfort.

Robert, watching the drama, felt his resolve to propose to Laura strengthen.

With James Sinclair still checking the card, Laura pressed on. “Dad, do you really see me as your daughter, or am I just like these earrings? Have you ever truly considered me your own?”

These were questions she’d held back in her past life, The sapphire earrings and necklace lay on the velvet, a contrast that felt like a joke. The extravagant gifts for Olivia were a slap in the face to Laura.

The ones doing this were David and Emma, who claimed to treat her like their own daughter. Emma, whom Laura had called “Mom” for years, had left her name off today’s party invitation. Olivia’s name took center stage, while Laura’s was a barely-there footnote, an afterthought.

Her question sparked a flurry of whispers among the guests

“See? In the Sharpe family, only Olivia holds any real status

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Chapter 18

“Foster daughters are just that-no blood ties. If they invested a lot in her and she left, it’d be a huge loss.”

*Poor Ms. Godfrey. She hasn’t even gotten a gift apart from those carrings. Look at the disparity.”

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“I almost forgot today was her birthday. That invitation barely mentioned Laura’s name-it’s so tiny. I would’ve brought her a gift if I’d known.”

Some socialites, who already looked down on Laura, grew even more envious.

“So what if she’s a Godfrey? My friend knows them, and they never speak of her. There must be some secret

reason.”

“Exactly! If she was a real Godfrey, why wouldn’t she have revealed her identity earlier? Why live under the Sharpes’ roof? I bet the Godfreys don’t even want her.”

“Serves her right. She acted like she was above everyone-this was bound to happen.”

“Ugh, this is too awkward. I’m cringing so hard I could dig my toes into the floor.”

“If I were her, I’d have left long ago. Why stick around for this embarrassment?”

The chatter filled the air, a mix of doubt and judgment, making the atmosphere incredibly tense for Laura.

Then, just as Robert spotted the perfect moment to present his gift, a crowd burst into the hall. A performance troupe and a chef brigade entered, looking impressive.

The crowd gasped in awe. “Is that Bryan, the musician?!”

“And Joseph, the famous dessert master!”

“No way! Bryan’s concerts are sold out, and Joseph works for royalty only. What are they doing here?”

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