The Ashford family decided to hold a big party. It was both to celebrate the New Year and to welcome Anna back home. Since it was the start of a new year, Anna suggested that they combine the two parties into one. Reginald and Evelyn thought Anna was very thoughtful for this idea. They believed she didn't want her parents to go through the trouble of planning two separate parties. They felt proud, thinking Anna was mature and caring.
However, Anna's real reason was different. She wanted something more than just a small family gathering. Anna wanted a big party with lots of important people—business partners, family friends, and other guests. She wanted everyone to see that she was the eldest daughter of the Ashford family. She wanted to stand out and be admired, not just by her close family but by everyone who mattered in their social circle.
