For a while, Evelyn let the three of them chat, watching her husband and Oscar interact like reluctant allies.
Then she turned to Alicia and Stella. "Come, let's check the birthday decor in the back. I want to make sure everything's perfect before the other guests arrive."
Alicia stood gracefully, while Stella followed them with her usual enthusiasm.
The three of them walked together toward the back hall, leaving the laughter of the living room behind.
The party hall was breathtaking. The long dining table gleamed under soft natural light, dressed in linen and fresh flowers.
The golden cutlery glinted beside porcelain plates, and the glass windows framed a stunning view of the mountains and lake beyond.
"It's beautiful," Alicia murmured, her eyes softening. "You've done a wonderful job, Eve..."
"Thank you," Evelyn said with a proud smile. "I wanted something peaceful. Oliver loves the view here. He says it looks like a painting."
