Next Man, Better Plan novel Chapter 166

Arnold and Susan were busy greeting their guests.

Stephanie approached them. "Mom, Mr. Yates."

Arnold gave Stephanie a brief nod.

Susan smiled. "Stephanie, you're here."

In her mother's presence, Stephanie was meek and obedient, like a well-behaved child.

"This is your birthday gift."

She handed over a beautifully wrapped box.

A curious guest chimed in, "What's inside? Open it up and let's see, Mrs. Yates."

Having not lived with Susan for several years, hearing everyone call her 'Mrs. Yates' caught Stephanie off guard. It took her a moment to adjust.

Susan opened the gift box. Upon seeing its contents, the smile on her face visibly froze. She snatched her hand back as if she'd been burned.

Someone exclaimed, "How beautiful! It's a brooch!"

Vivian walked over. "What a coincidence, Mom. I got you a brooch too."

With that, she presented a similar gift box.

The atmosphere grew tense as the guests exchanged glances.

Without a moment's hesitation, Susan picked up the box Vivian had given her.

Her eyes were drawn to the logo on it, and she feigned interest. "Is this from that brand we saw the other day when we were out shopping?"

Vivian nodded.

Someone nearby immediately commented, "Mrs. Yates loves brooches. Both her daughters are so thoughtful."

"It matches your outfit perfectly. Go on, Mrs. Yates, pick one and put it on."

Everyone was curious to see which one Susan would choose.

After all, one was her biological daughter, the other her stepdaughter.

Under the watchful eyes of everyone present, Susan unhesitatingly pinned on the brooch from Vivian.

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