"So that's why I chose Haleona Beach as the theme," Giselle whispered in his ear, explaining the meaning behind the cake. Then, with deliberate tenderness, she added, "Darling, happy birthday!"
Donovan was moved despite himself. Words felt unnecessary. He turned, ready to kiss her again, when the sound of a car horn cut through the moment.
A beat later, Benjamin stepped inside to report, "Mr. Kane, Mrs. Kane Senior has arrived, along with Mr. and Mrs. Ethan."
At once, Giselle took the initiative to step outside and welcome them.
The party was small—just Dorothea, Ethan, and Grace. Zachary, still in the country, chose not to attend.
"Mrs. Kane Senior," Giselle greeted dutifully, sticking to the formal title since she still hadn't earned Dorothea's approval. "The dinner has been ready for a while now. We've been waiting for you."
Dorothea gave her a cold glance, not bothering to respond, and swept straight into the living room.
"Ethan, Grace," Giselle tried again with polite warmth.
Grace answered with nothing more than a look of disdain. She had clearly been worn thin by the recent scandal over Gideon's parentage. She hadn't even wanted to come tonight, but for the sake of family unity, and to safeguard Zachary's place within the Kane family, she had forced herself to put on a front.
Once everyone was ushered into the living room, Giselle stepped fully into her role as hostess. She guided each of them to their seats, deliberately placing Dorothea at the head of the table.
Even when faced with her frosty demeanor, Giselle kept her posture low and her manners attentive, hovering to make sure everything was in order.

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