The smile on Melinda’s face vanished, reced by a chilly gaze.


    She examined Shelia from head to toe, then summoned Jacob over.


    Doubting her own perceptions, Melinda questioned Jacob, “Is this woman really your girlfriend?”


    Jacob nced at Shelia and affirmed, “Yes, Grandma.


    She’s my girlfriend, and the woman beside her is her sister, Lindsey.


    ”


    Melinda looked at Shelia closely.


    Years of experience in a prominent family had honed her ability to read people.


    She couldn’t help but question why her grandson, who grew up in a rich family and held a high position at Ray Films, encountering numerous beautiful women, would choose someone who appeared so artificially charming.


    On the surface, Shelia seemed innocent and pure, but Melinda sensed underlying cunning and vulgarity.


    She realized she paled inparison to the stunning girl before her.


    They were sisters, yet it was obvious who shone brighter when they stood side by side.


    Why did Jacob opt for the less appealing one?


    Though Melinda was reluctant to admit it, she was content knowing her grandson was happy.


    As an old woman, she acknowledged she might be out of touch with the younger generation’s tastes.


    Melinda offered Shelia a forced smile and said, “I’ve made a mistake, please forgive me.


    ”


    “It’s no trouble at all.


    It doesn’t bother me.


    ” Shelia made an effort to smile, aiming to leave a positive impression on Melinda.


    Melinda nced once more at Lindsey, holding onto a sliver of hope, but then resigned herself to the reality and joined the other guests.


    Arthur dered the start of the family celebration.


    Everyone joyfully wished Melinda a happy birthday.


    They all have prepared very expensive gifts.


    Shelia, Kendra, and Benny too had invested significantly in their gifts for Melinda’s birthday celebration.


    After presenting her gift, Shelia approached Lindsey with a look of disdain.


    “It’s Mrs.


    Melinda Perry’s birthday.


    Didn’t you prepare a gift for her?”


    Lindsey, arms crossed and one hand clutching her chin, eyed Shelia and teased, “Take a guess.


    ”


    “Ha, I bet you didn’t prepare anything at all!” With a smirk, Shelia hid the fact that it was Melinda’s birthday from Lindsey, hoping to see her embarrass herself.


    The guests nearby turned their attention to Lindsey, “Really? You came to the birthday without a gift?”


    “That’s quite rude, not even knowing basic social etiquette!”


    “Maybe she is too poor to get a decent gift.


    ”N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    “Even in those fancy clothes, it just proves that while the Perry family’s wardrobe is impressive, those wearing them might still be poor underneath.


    ”


    Shelia felt a surge of satisfaction hearing the mockingments about the two.


    She thought that when Melinda discovered Lindsey hadn’t brought a gift, she would surely be displeased, making Shelia more favorable in her eyes.


    Just as Shelia smiled proudly and imagined what would happenter.


    Suddenly, the doors of the Perry family vi swung open, and two sharply dressed men entered.