When the Valentine family and Mrs. Florida’s gaze landed on Ruby, their smiles immediately faded. Mr. and Mrs. Valentine exchanged looks, as if silently questioning why Ruby was even here. Mrs. Valentine wasn’t oblivious; she knew her son was only playing around and would never risk the family’s reputation by bringing an illegitimate daughter to an event like this.
Mrs. Florida narrowed her eyes slightly, looking at Ruby with a silent warning, almost in disbelief that Ruby had disregarded her earlier reminders. It felt as though the entire room grew colder with Ruby’s arrival.
Oblivious to the tension, Sue abruptly asked, "Ruby, what are you doing here? Who are you to attend an event like this?"
Samantha quickly took Ruby’s hand, feigning concern. “I invited Ru. She’s family too, after
