Chapter 48
Irene beamed at Harvey with obvious approval. "Harvey," she commented, "please take the seat of honor. Tonight's family dinner is all about you."
Harvey maintained perfect etiquette, treating every Stevens family member with utmost politeness and respect. His behavior filled everyone with pride; they were convinced they had found the perfect addition to their family.
"Seeing Harvey so popular and capable must be hard to watch," Christina remarked, appearing beside Andrew.
Andrew smiled. "Congratulations on finding such an exceptional match. You've always dreamed of marrying into high society, and now you've achieved it."
Christina's expression grew complex as she sighed. "Andrew, I've always known you're not a bad person. I'm not saying this to rub it in. I just want you to learn from Harvey's admirable qualities. Even if you can't match his success, you could at least live with dignity."
Andrew chuckled. "Are you saying I'll never be as successful as him?"
Christina shook her head in disappointment. "I see you're still stubborn and hopeless. I was trying to help, but you're just being defensive. Forget it. Grandpa knows we're over, and I'm sure Harvey will soon replace you in his eyes."
The Stevens family dinner was an elaborate affair. Douglas sat at the head of the table, smiling contentedly. Andrew sat beside him, much to the family's displeasure.
"Why should this loser sit next to Grandpa?"
"That spot should be for Harvey! Who does this guy think he is?"
Leroy and Irene complained loudly, their disdain unconcealed.
Harvey sat beside Christina and graciously remarked, "Mrs. Stevens, Leroy, it's fine. I'm happy to sit anywhere as long as Mr. Stevens Senior is comfortable."
"Now that's classโexactly what you'd expect from an old-money family," Irene praised enthusiastically.
Leroy chimed in, "Harvey, we're family now. Please, help yourself and enjoy the meal!"
The other Stevens family members fawned over Harvey, treating him like a celebrity.
Douglas sighed and said apologetically to Andrew, "Andrew, I never expected things between you and Christina to end this way."
Not wanting Douglas to worry, Andrew replied, "Mr. Stevens Senior, some things aren't meant to be. I brought some excellent wine that's good for your health. Please enjoy it."
Douglas smiled warmly. "How thoughtful of you! I've been craving your wine for a while now."
As Andrew began pouring, Leroy interrupted loudly, "What do you think you're doing, Andrew? That cheap trash isn't fit to drink!"
Andrew frowned. "If you don't understand fine wine, don't talk like you do. This is perfectly suitable for Mr. Stevens Senior!"
Leroy laughed mockingly. "He's claiming I don't know wine! Look at that unlabeled bottleโit's probably watered-down garbage from some street vendor!"
The other Stevens family members around the table sneered, casting dismissive looks at Andrew's bottle.