When His Perfect Mask Shattered I Awoke (Anneliese) novel Chapter 531

Even if they had something to say, they would need to think twice about voicing it.

Jonathan’s cool gaze drifted toward Elizabeth, a silent tension hanging in the air between them. He said nothing, but the weight of his silence was palpable.

Elizabeth met his gaze, her expression momentarily flickering like a candle in the wind before her brows knitted together in frustration.

The thought of Jonathan unceremoniously tossing me out of Oceaton to make room for Anneliese ignited a fire of anger within me.

Now, he had the audacity to bring Anneliese home, cradling her as though she were a precious artifact, something to be displayed rather than a person.

How am I supposed to keep my temper in check when faced with such blatant disregard?

But then, just as my anger began to swell, Jonathan shot me that infuriating half-smile, a look that was equal parts playful and warning. In an instant, my ire shrank, replaced by a wave of guilt.

No matter what, I am his mother and elder—I cannot be the one to leap into conflict and humiliate my own son in front of everyone gathered here.

As the silence deepened, it felt increasingly suffocating, a cloak of humiliation wrapping around me.

Derek sat nearby, his expression dark and stormy. Penelope cast a glance at Elizabeth, but chose to remain silent, her lips pressed into a thin line.

The three Fullbuster brothers and their wives were equally unresponsive, clearly unwilling to intervene in this escalating drama.

If even they remained mute, the younger generation would certainly not dare to speak up.

Just when Elizabeth’s face was contorting into a more unattractive scowl by the second, Anneliese—still nestled in Jonathan’s arms—suddenly broke the silence.

“Mom is right. I’ve been rude. Please, put me down.”

She turned her gaze to Jonathan, who, without hesitation, complied, gently lowering her while still supporting her waist to ensure she didn’t wobble.

Standing tall and steady, Anneliese beamed at the elders, her voice ringing clear and bright.

“Happy New Year, Grandpa, Grandma! Happy New Year to all my uncles and aunts! I’m a little injured, and Jonathan was worried I might fall and embarrass myself, so… please don’t laugh at me.”

Her demeanor was poised, as if she were performing on a stage rather than facing a room full of scrutinizing eyes.

Despite Elizabeth’s earlier sharpness, Anneliese showed no sign of resentment.

With so many eyes upon her, she appeared completely unperturbed.

In fact, she seemed to ease the tension in the room, even helping Elizabeth salvage her dignity.

Derek remained silent, yet I could see the shift in his expression—a flicker of surprise and perhaps begrudging admiration.

Penelope, however, was taken aback and sprang to her feet, her concern evident.

“Are you injured? Where?” she exclaimed, her voice laced with urgency.

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