Chapter 109

Cassandra couldn't resist teasing, "Oh come now, can't stomach the thought that Evelyn might actually be more talented than you?" She held up the painting proudly. "I had this authenticated by three different art experts. It's a genuine Isabella Grayson original."

"Evelyn's artwork has raised millions for charity," she added with a smirk.

Gregory nodded in agreement. "Absolutely authentic."

Isabella's face flushed crimson with anger, but no retort came to mind. Evelyn shifted uncomfortably at Cassandra's bold claims about her uncertain past.

From his corner, Liam allowed himself a small smile. Finally, someone in the family was acknowledging Evelyn's gifts.

Beatrice huffed indignantly. "Genevieve is classically trained, unlike some amateur who happens to sell paintings for ridiculous sums."

Cassandra arched an eyebrow. "Even 'amateurs' can command millions. I wonder if your precious goddaughter's work could fetch even pocket change."

Beatrice opened and closed her mouth like a fish out of water.

Gregory chuckled as he carefully rolled the canvas. "These days, universities churn out graduates by the thousands, but real talent?" He shook his head. "Most can't even land proper jobs. Their creations are just vanity projects!"

Beatrice's hands clenched into fists. Then her gaze landed on the grand piano in the corner, and her expression brightened.

"Genevieve is also an accomplished pianist," Beatrice declared haughtily.

She practically dragged Genevieve to the piano bench. "Why don't you play something for us, dear?"

Without a trace of humility, Genevieve gave a theatrical bow. "Allow me to delight you with my skills."

Her fingers danced across the keys in a technically proficient but emotionally flat performance.

Coming from a family of musicians with perfect pitch, Isabella rolled her eyes in disdain.

The less musically inclined guests offered polite applause when she finished.

Beatrice clapped enthusiastically. "Wasn't that spectacular? Genevieve is truly exceptional!"

Richard and Eleanor joined the lukewarm applause while others barely managed polite smiles.

Isabella scoffed loudly. "That's a Grade 5 piece at best. Any child with two years of lessons could play it better." She tilted her head mockingly. "Why not attempt 'Piano Concerto No. 3' if you're so talented?"

Genevieve's smile faltered. "I've heard your mother is quite the virtuoso. Perhaps you'd care to demonstrate that piece for us? I'd love to learn from a master."

Isabella shrugged. "I'm mediocre at best. Can't tackle the world's hardest pieces." She shot Genevieve a pointed look. "Though with all of Beatrice's boasting, I assumed you could. My mistake."

"I—" Genevieve stammered.

Beatrice looked flustered. Her plan to upstage Evelyn had somehow turned into a confrontation with Isabella.

Redirecting, Beatrice sniffed, "Even if Genevieve can't play advanced pieces, she's still infinitely more cultured than someone like Evelyn who probably can't even read sheet music."

Evelyn found herself suddenly thrust into the spotlight, unsure how to respond.

Liam's expression darkened. "Aunt Beatrice, are you deliberately targeting my wife tonight?"

"Nonsense, Liam! I'm merely suggesting Evelyn play something simple." Beatrice's eyes gleamed with malice. "Surely she can manage 'Happy Birthday'? Even I could play that by ear, and I've never had a lesson in my life!"