Chapter 163 A Better Performance
As lunchtime rolled around, Scarlett extended an invitation to George and Mia to join them. Ava had initially anticipated a simple family gathering, but was taken aback when Isabella unexpectedly made an appearance.
Ava's mind began to churn, piecing together the cryptic words of the elderly woman who had assured her she wouldn't be unjustly wronged. Concerned that a clash with Isabella might strain the bond between Alex and his grandmother, Ava implored Scarlett to refrain from any confrontational behavior.
However, Scarlett placated Ava's worries, vowing to maintain her composure throughout the meal. Ava's attempts to dissuade the elderly woman proved futile, and with Isabella already en route, it was too late to alter the course of events.
The five of them congregated around the table, a palpable silence permeating the room. George's gaze frequently wandered towards Mia, who continued to eat with an air of nonchalance, seemingly indifferent to the presence of others.
Ava observed the elderly woman with a sense of curiosity. Scarlett, on the other hand, turned her attention to Isabella, her lips curling into a smile. "Miss Harrington, this is our first official meeting, isn't it?" Despite the warmth of her smile, there was an undeniable aura of authority radiating from Scarlett.
Isabella, visibly anxious, made a concerted effort to project the poise and sophistication of a woman born into wealth. "Yes, ma'am, I'm genuinely delighted to meet you today, and I appreciate the invitation."
The phone call had initially startled her, and she was half-convinced it was a prank. However, it was indeed Scarlett who had extended the invitation, even arranging for a car to transport her. This was Alex's grandmother, a woman whose approval was crucial if she were to marry Alex. Thus, she arrived, hopeful of winning Scarlett's favor.
Scarlett, having never met Isabella, held a preconceived bias. However, Isabella believed that with a little effort, she could sway the matriarch's opinion in her favor. If Ava, a woman of humble origins, could win over the elderly woman, then Isabella was confident she wouldn't be outdone. And if her efforts proved unsuccessful, she had a contingency plan.
"Don't mention it, my dear. Given your closeness with Alex, I should have extended an invitation sooner. It's not fair for him to keep you hidden away like that," Scarlett responded, her tone neutral, her words seemingly innocuous, yet the atmosphere grew strangely tense.
"Mom," Mia interjected, "I wouldn't say Alex has been hiding Miss Harrington. He frequently takes her out for meals, brings her to the company, and even on leisure outings. I suspect he'll soon introduce her at public events, perhaps as Mrs. Mitchell."
George retorted, "Mia, Alex and Ava are not divorced yet. How could anyone else bear the title of Mrs. Mitchell?"
"Aren't they on the verge of it? After all, Miss Harrington is visiting our home now, much like you did in the beginning," Mia replied nonchalantly, avoiding her husband's gaze.
George had intended to engage in conversation, but Mia's indifference silenced him. Both were puzzled when Scarlett had informed them of her invitation to Isabella, but they refrained from questioning her decision.
Ava remained silent, uncertain of Scarlett's intentions, and decided it was best to keep quiet. Isabella carefully scanned the room before her gaze landed on Ava. She knew she had to outshine Ava to succeed.
