She’s Back, and Hell’s Coming with Her novel Chapter 228

A sly smile tugged at the corner of Sabrina’s lips.

The real show was about to begin.

It was Hester’s first time meeting Marshall; she had no idea who he was.

Celine led Hester around, introducing her to each of her friends in turn.

When they reached Marshall, Celine said, “Hester, this is Marshall—the one I told you about.” She glanced at Marshall with a gentle, affectionate gaze. “Marshall, this is my sister. She just got back not long ago.”

Only then did Hester realize that this man was Marshall—Celine’s fiancé.

A wave of bitterness washed over her. She’d finally met someone she felt an instant spark with, only to find out he was already spoken for.

It left her feeling defeated.

Resentment simmered in her chest, but she kept her expression composed. With poise, she extended her hand and offered Marshall a sweet, radiant smile.

Marshall was visibly impressed. He always had a soft spot for women who were both elegant and confident, and Hester’s beauty and grace immediately won him over.

Someone nearby, unable to contain their curiosity, grinned and asked, “Celine, is this your sister who just came back? Wow, she’s so gentle and beautiful.”

The compliment made Hester light up with genuine delight.

She didn’t notice, however, Celine’s smile faltering ever so slightly, her mood darkening. This was supposed to be her birthday party, yet Hester had gone all out with her appearance, stealing the spotlight without even trying.

If it weren’t for her mother’s repeated instructions to keep Hester happy—just to make sure she’d put in a good word for her with their grandmother—Celine might have said something. After all, if she could stay on Hester’s good side, maybe she’d secure a piece of the old woman’s inheritance someday.

With that in mind, Celine forced a smile and chimed in, “Of course. Hester is not only beautiful, but also incredibly talented.”

She piled on the praise, making Hester sound practically otherworldly.

Marshall listened, his lips curving in a smile. Any girl Celine spoke so highly of must be truly remarkable.

At the center of the room, the party was in full swing. Sommer had given the spotlight to her daughter for the evening and only appeared with Desmond once the festivities began.

Meanwhile, Sabrina had been swept outside by a group of enthusiastic classmates. She played along, curious to see what Celine had up her sleeve.

Just then, Uliana sidled up beside her, speaking in a low voice as they walked together. “Be careful—someone’s planning something against you.”

With that, Uliana melted back into the group, leaving Sabrina with barely a moment to process the warning. No one else noticed their brief exchange.

Sabrina had already suspected that Celine was plotting against her tonight. If even Uliana could see through it, it must be obvious. After all, Uliana had once been her closest friend—she knew her inside out.

Sabrina smirked coldly. Bring it on, she thought. I dare you to make a move.

The garden was beautifully decorated, with tables lining the paths, covered in fresh fruit, pastries, drinks, and sparkling cider.

As Sabrina wandered along, she carefully mirrored whatever the other guests were drinking—never letting herself appear greedy.

“Sabrina, fancy running into you again.” A gentle voice called out.

Sabrina, in the middle of savoring a bite of strawberry shortcake, looked up at the speaker. A dab of whipped cream had smudged the corner of her mouth, and she shot the newcomer a slightly annoyed look, clearly displeased at being interrupted.