Chapter 495

Eleanor Vance's gaze fell on Evelyn Ross.

Her entire body went rigid.

Her pupils constricted sharply.

She stared fixedly at that face.

Her fingers trembled slightly.

She rubbed her eyes hard.

When she looked again, her eyes were rimmed with red.

Fiona Vance also gasped, covering her mouth in disbelief.

The surrounding guests noticed the abnormality and began whispering among themselves.

"Mrs. Vance looks terrible…"

"She must be furious with Miss Ross."

"I heard she's keeping a man outside. The Vances are utterly humiliated this time."

"The Ashcrofts are too arrogant. They didn't even greet anyone upon entering."

Amid the murmurs, William Ashcroft stepped forward. "Aunt Eleanor."

Eleanor Vance showed no reaction.

She continued staring intently at Evelyn, tears welling in her eyes.

William gave a slight nod.

It seemed the elder lady still cared deeply for Evelyn.

Back in San Francisco, the Vances had been genuinely sincere towards his daughter.

The unpleasantness at the entrance could perhaps be overlooked.

With an elder like this, his daughter wouldn't be mistreated in the future.

The Ashcroft uncle whispered, "Third Brother, she's completely ignoring you."

Ethan Valentine frowned. "Grandmother, Third Uncle is speaking to you!"

William's face darkened. "Mind your manners."

Ethan turned his face away indignantly.

Preston Valentine spoke coldly. "Third Uncle, the Vances have no sincerity. Perhaps the marriage should be called off."

Penelope Valentine stepped forward at the opportune moment.

She stood beside Eleanor Vance and said softly, "Preston is right. Third Uncle, since no one is happy, perhaps an amicable separation is best. Don't you agree, Mrs. Vance?"

Fiona gently nudged the elder lady.

Eleanor finally snapped out of her trance.

She stated resolutely, "No!"

Penelope's eyes lit up. "You want the Ashcrofts to apologize? I offer an apology on my sister's behalf. The alliance marriage is of great importance. The dowry has been sent. Calling off the engagement would indeed be embarrassing…"

Eleanor cut her off. "Who said anything about calling off the engagement? The Vances will absolutely not cancel this marriage!"

Penelope's heart raced. "Then… the Ashcrofts have other suitable candidates."

Someone nearby chimed in. "Miss Penelope is also an Ashcroft daughter. Perhaps she could take her place in the alliance?"

Penelope lowered her head shyly. "Third Uncle, for the sake of the Ashcrofts, I am willing to make this sacrifice."

William remained silent.

Eleanor suddenly pushed through the crowd and rushed straight towards Evelyn.