Chapter 328

---- Chapter 328 "Don't rush. Let's eat first, then I'll tell you." Anne's tone carried the calm confidence of someone with everything under control. The dinner spread was lavish-seafood, steak, foie gras, caviar -an array fit for a grand occasion. But the more lavish the meal, and the more effusive Anne's hospitality grew, the more uneasy Giselle became. Just a few days earlier at the hospital, Anne had attacked her with seething hatred. How could her attitude have shifted so drastically in only a few days? What game was she playing now? Was this some kind of trap?

Abanquet laid like a snare? Could the food have been poisoned? But looking around at the others' faces, none showed suspicion. They ate naturally enough. Giselle, filled with doubt, sat down anyway. If Anne wanted to stage something, she would see for herself. Once they began, Anne poured half a glass of red wine for Giselle and then for herself. Rising to her feet, she raised her glass in Giselle's direction. "Giselle, I know I've done far too many things to hurt you. A simple 'sorry' could never undo that pain. But at this point, I still want to try to repair our bond as sisters.

I hope you can forgive me. This glass is for you." ---- She tipped the wine back in one gulp. Her words, paired with that look of sorrow and repentance , caught Giselle off guard. If Anne's remorse was an act, then her performance deserved an award. Even Renee looked baffled, wondering how her carefully raised daughter had suddenly capitulated so completely. Ascene like this was exactly what Tony wanted to see. He stepped in to coax Giselle. "Giselle, look-Anne has already apologized sincerely.

No matter what's happened, try to keep things civil between you two from now on." But Giselle wasn't naive. A few sentimental words weren't going to make her forgive a woman who had repeatedly tried to take her life. She didn't touch the wine Anne had poured and had no interest in listening to more contrived sentiment. Neither did she want to stir conflict under their roof. So she kept her face impassive, took a token bite or two from the dishes, and prepared to leave.

Just then, Anne unexpectedly picked up the serving spoon, scooped a piece of meat from a steaming casserole dish that looked like a roasted pork chop, and placed it in Giselle's plate. "Giselle, this is your home too. Don't be so formal-eat, have some more." Giselle's stomach turned at the feigned warmth , but out of reflex, she nibbled at the meat. It was tough, unpleasant. She ---- chewed a little and then set the rest back on the plate. "That's enough. I don't have time for this." She wiped her hands with a damp towel and stood, her eyes fixed on Anne.

"Whatever it is you're supposed to give me, take it out now. If you stall again, I'm leaving." Seeing she meant it-ready to walk out without another minute wasted -Anne's lips curved in a faint, hidden smile. Then she said smoothly, "Alright. If you're in such a hurry, I won't keep you. Just wait a moment." She rose and left the table. Under the puzzled expressions of the others , she climbed the stairs. A few minutes later , she descended again, carrying a paper bag in her hand.