She Was the Treasure All Along novel Chapter 76

But the smile on her face froze the very next second, because Loyce hadn’t shown up the way she’d imagined, flustered and overdressed in something ill-fitting, ready to embarrass herself in front of the whole room.

“Is that Ms. Lonsdale?” Yorick studied Loyce’s outfit and composure, visibly surprised. “She doesn’t match any of the awful rumors at all. It’s like she’s a completely different person.”

Loyce was wearing a black satin, strapless evening gown. Her long hair was swept into a simple twist, and at her throat lay an antique piece of royal jewelry—tasteful, understated, and unmistakably expensive. With minimal makeup, she looked elegant without trying too hard, the kind of presence that didn’t need to announce itself.

Sybil nearly ground her teeth to dust. She forced a stiff smile. “Right? I told you, Loyce and I aren’t that different. We’re both… well-bred.”

“I actually think she looks more like the one in charge,” Yorick said, amused. “Look at the way she talks to people. That’s old-money posture. She must’ve trained for tonight so she wouldn’t bring shame on the Lonsdale name.”

Sybil’s fingers curled into a fist. She couldn’t let Loyce steal Yorick’s attention. The Winslets weren’t on the same level as the Shapiros, but they were shipping royalty—owners of one of the biggest cargo fleets on the sea. If her fiancé option A ever fell through, Yorick was option B.

Sybil hurried forward in tiny, graceful steps, looping her arm through Loyce’s with practiced intimacy. “Loyce, you made it! I saved you a seat. Come sit. And… I’m sorry. It’s my fault you were delayed.”

Loyce’s voice stayed flat. “If you carry the Lonsdale name, even as a branch family, you represent us. If you agree to something, you show up. And basic punctuality isn’t something I should have to teach you twice.”

Sybil hadn’t expected to be scolded in front of everyone. Her throat tightened; her eyes reddened on cue. “I worked late… I really did. I’ll be on time next time. Please forgive me, Loyce.”

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