Celia clutched Samuel's hand tighter. Her voice was soft and sweet. "Sam, it really is Elizabeth. When did she come back?"
Celia's tone carried a hint of fear, as if Elizabeth was some venomous beast.
Years ago, when Samuel insisted on marrying Celia, Tomas had agreed. But Elizabeth interfered, declaring she wouldn't marry anyone but Samuel. Tomas sided with her, forcing his own grandson to marry Elizabeth.
Samuel gently patted Celia's hand, comforting her. His dark eyes held a chilling coldness as they landed on Elizabeth. "Don't worry. Once this party is over, she'll have to leave!"
"But Sam," Celia protested, "you grew up with her. She's like your sister, after all."
"Celia, you're too kind. She's a Jones, not Samuel's sister!" Daisy interjected, indignant on behalf of Celia. "Look
