102 The Matriarch’s Favor
Hazel’s POV
The confrontation with (Horia and Liana had left me feeling drained yet defiant fd barely had time to process Sebastian’s public defense of me before I found myself facing a new challenge Alistas dramatic entrance had been thwarted by security giving me a temporary reprieve, but the night was far from over
As Sebastian led me away from the commotion, we ended up near a quiet alcove adorned with fresh orchids. The elegant arrangement reminded me of my own wedding flowers-the ones that never made it down the aisle
“Are you alright?” Sebastian asked, his dark eyes scanning my face
I nodded, forcing a smile. “I’m fine. Just another Everett family reunion to add to my collection of nightmares:
Before Sebastian could respond, we were approached by an older couple. The man was fall with distinguished silver hair, but it was the woman who commanded attention. She carried herself with quiet authority, her silver-streaked dark hair swept into an elegant updo that accentuated her sharp cheekbones. Her eyes-the same intense shade as Sebastian’s-watched me with curious interest
Mother” Sebastian greeted, “may I properly introduce Hazel Shaw?”
My heart skipped a bear. Mrs. Sinclair-the birthday honoree and Sebastian’s mother stood before me in my burgundy creation. Up close, the dress fit her perfectly, the intricate beadwork catching the light with every subtle movement
Ms. Shaw” she said, her voice warm yet refined. “I’ve been hoping to meet you all
evening
Foxtruded my hand. “The pleasure is mine; Mrs. Sinclai: Happy birthday
She took my hand in both of hers instead of a formal handshake. Thank you, dea: And thank you for this magnificent dress. I’ve never received so many compliments.
Before I could respond a harsh voice cut through our moment
So this is where you’ve been hiding”
Lariat angdon approached us her face fight with poorly concealed anger, Gloria rated betural her looking triumpliant
Mrs smelan released my hands and turned to face them, her expression cooling
several degrees.
“Luna” she acknowledged with a slight nod. I wasn’t aware you were invited tonight:
Liana’s smile didn’t reach her eyes. “Old family connections, Elizabeth. You know how
it is.
“Indeed, Mrs. Sinclair replied. “Though some connections fade with time. Particularly when they’re not nurtured with respect.”
The subtle rebuke hung in the air. Liana’s smile faltered.
I see you’ve met Hazel,” she said, recovering quickly. “Did you know she was engaged to my son until quite recently?”
Mrs. Sinclair’s expression remained unchanged. “I’m aware of Ms. Shaw’s history with
your family
Gloria stepped forward, her voice dripping with false concern. “We were just surprised
to see her here with Sebastian. After all, she’s still technically married to my brother
Several nearby guests turned their heads at this statement. My cheeks burned with
indignation
“That’s a lie and you know it.” I said firmly. “The divorce was finalized months ago
“Semantics” Gloria waved dismissively. “The fact remains that you moved on rather
quickly, Some might call it adultery.”
Sebastian’s Jaw tightened, but before he could speak, I found my voice.
Adultery?” I laughed without humor “That’s rich coming from the family of a man who teft me for my stepsister days before our wedding. A man who paraded his new
lationship across every tabloid in the city while I was still picking up the pieces of any life?
Liana’s eyes narrowed. “Alistair was being compassionate. Ivy was dying.
And now she’s miraculously recovered, I countered. “How convenient.
My son made a mistake. Lai said dismissively “One he regrets deeply. He still love voie Hazel You should consider taking him back instead of this rebound
The nerve of this woman was astounding. My fingernails dug into my palms as I fought to maintain my composure
“Your son doesn’t know what love is, I said coldly. “And neither do you, if you think what he did was forgivable.”
Liana’s face flushed with anger. “How dare you question our family values?”
“Family values?” I repeated incredulously: “Is that what you call manipulating a vulnerable woman and stealing her wedding dress? Is that what you call breaking sacred vows before they’re even made
Gloria stepped forward, her voice rising. “You’re just bitter because Alistair chose someone better! Someone with class and breeding, not some wannabe designer whose mother couldn’t even hold onto her own husband!”
A hush fell over the surrounding guests. The reference to my mother was the final straw, White-hot rage flooded through me, but before I could unleash it, Sebastian placed a steadying hand on my arm.
“That’s enough,” he said, his voice deceptively calm but with an undercurrent of steel “You’ve overstayed your welcome, Gloria.”
Gloria’s eyes widened with fake innocence. “I’m just stating facts. Everyone knows-
“Everyone knows you’re making a scene at a private event, Sebastian cut her off. “Security will escort you out if necessary
Liana looked horrified. “You wouldn’t dare.”
Try me” Sebastian challenged.
I touched his arm lightly. “It’s okay. I want to leave anyway.”
As we turned to go, a commanding voice stopped us
No one is leaving
Mrs. Sinclair stepped forward, her regal presence drawing all eyes. “Except perhaps those who have forgotten their manners.
She turned to me with unexpected warmth, Hazel, my dear, don’t let these people duve costaway from my celebration Especially when you’re the creator of my favorite birthday gift
She gestured to her dress, drawing appreciative murmurs from the crowd
Mother
Sebastian began, but she held up a hand.
Ive been watching this young woman all evening.” Mrs. Sinclair announced, loud enough for everyone to hear ‘Graceful under pressure, talented beyond meastire, and dignified in the face of unwarranted hostility
She took my hand again, this time for the benefit of the onlookers. “Did you know that Vogue featured Ms. Shaw’s most recent collection? Called her the most promising designer of her generation?
Liana’s face had gone pale. Gloria looked like she’d swallowed something sour
“She’s just a tailor Gloria muttered, but loud enough to be heard.
Mrs. Sinclair’s eyebrow arched dangerously. “A tailor? My dear, there’s nothing just about creating wearable art. Fashion is one of our oldest cultural expressions. It requires vision, skill, and artistry!
She turned to face Gloria directly. “What is it you do again, Gloria? Besides riding on your family name?
Gloria’s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. “I-I’m an accomplished planist. I’ve won
several awards”
Mrs. Sinclair’s smile was razor-sharp. “Have you held a solo concert?
