Chapter 60

Esme bit her lip, realizing Lily was eyeing that rare ginseng too. Showing off this ginseng today, she was sure Lily would finally see her differently! But if Lily found out it was fake… No way, she wouldn’t let that happen! With that thought, Esme lifted her chin, her eyes brimming with confidence.

“Mrs. Tudor!” Esme beamed and walked over to Lily.

Lily glanced at her but stayed silent.

Esme didn’t let it bother her. She approached, still smiling, and curtsied slightly. “Mrs. Tudor, happy birthday! Wishing you health and happiness!” Her voice was sweet and respectful, playing the part perfectly.

Lily gave a slight nod. “Thank you, Ms. Russell.”

“Mrs. Tudor, this is for you!” Esme shot William a look, then turned back to Lily, saying earnestly, “The ginseng!”

Everyone gasped. The Russell family had really brought the world’s rarest ginseng.

Lily eyed the red velvet box being handed to her, frowning. This was rare. How did they get…

“Mrs. Tudor, it was tough to find. The whole Russell family searched for almost a month before we finally got it!” Esme said softly. “There were times I wanted to give up, but knowing it was for you kept me going! Your birthday is so grand, only such a rare ginseng is worthy of you!”

Every word Esme said oozed strength and confidence.

Lily eyed Esme. She didn’t like her, but from her tone and look, it seemed the Russell family really went all out this time.

“Then open it and show us!” Lily demanded.

Esme hesitated. Open the box in front of everyone?

“Mrs. Tudor, this ginseng is precious. Maybe later—” Esme trailed off.

Lily’s gaze was so intense it could cut steel. She didn’t need to speak; her eyes said it all: Why can’t it be opened?

Esme bit her lip, lost for words.

Lily stayed calm. “Everyone here is my friend. If this ginseng is so rare, why not let them see it?”

Esme forced a smile and nodded. “Alright, as you wish, Mrs. Tudor!” As long as Lily was happy, anything goes!

Lily snorted; at least Esme knew how to play along.

“Open it!” Lily ordered.

The butler stepped up, took the gift, and moved to a nearby table. The crowd gathered around. He opened the velvet box, revealing the fancy packaging. Everyone was eager to see the ginseng.

Just then, someone shouted, “The Tudor family’s young mistress is here!”

All eyes turned; it could only be Elizabeth!

When Lily heard Elizabeth was here, her eyes lit up. She ditched…