Chapter 459
459:
Despite standing before the Miller family’s matriarch, Lyman couldn’t help but judge her through the narrow lens of his own prejudices. Regardless of how powerful the Miller family might have been, he didn’t see it as a place where a woman should be calling the shots. In his eyes, her position had little to do with merit and everything to do with the luck of marrying a man both powerful and well-bred.
“The pleasure’s mine,” Celine returned his greeting with steady grace. “Lorraine speaks very highly of your talent and expertise in music.”
Though Lyman didn’t openly sneer, a trace of contempt flickered in his eyes—a detail not lost on Celine. Years within the Miller family had taught her how to read people, even though she didn’t quite match Kurt’s perceptiveness.
“Lorraine always gives me too much credit,” Lyman’s lips curled into a falsely humble grin, and he stood a little taller as he absorbed the compliment and subtly looked down his nose.
Not missing a beat, Celine kept up the polite fiction. “Actually, it was Kurt who was so impressed with Lorraine’s praise for your piano playing that he insisted on inviting you.”
A low chuckle escaped Lyman. “If Mr. Miller would enjoy it, I’d be delighted to play something at the banquet—consider it my gift for his birthday.”
A gracious smile touched Celine’s lips. “Then I’ll take you up on your offer.”
“Well, playing for someone who appreciates music is a pleasure, especially for Mr. Miller. Truly, it’s my honor.” Lyman waved with a laugh.
Little did he know, Celine’s earlier words had been nothing more than polite small talk. Kurt had never cared for music or instruments. If given the choice, he’d much rather pass the time at the card table or lose himself in some other distraction. Calling Kurt a true music enthusiast was, in Celine’s mind, almost laughable.
The scene shifted as they stepped into the banquet hall. All conversation seemed to freeze, every pair of eyes tracking their entrance with rapt attention.
Standing in that spotlight, Lyman felt a rush of pride swell in his chest, and his stride grew even more self-assured. Convinced that Kurt must have already introduced him to the other guests, he basked in the attention and convinced himself it was out of respect. To be invited by Kurt to a birthday celebration was no small matter. Now, as a guest of honor, he was certain every person in the room owed him deference.
A surge of satisfaction ran through him as he realized that a bit of big talk—and his piano skills—had landed him among the city’s elite. These high-society types seemed oblivious, easily taken in by appearances and unable to verify his credentials. Gratitude even flickered for Tiana’s enigmatic protégé—without that elusive protégé, impersonating would have been impossible. Even if someone suspected his identity, no one could prove he’d been lying.
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A smug smile tugged at his face. If he managed to fool the Miller family this time, the doors to society’s upper ranks would swing wide open for him. He’d earn a place among Lorbridge’s elite, gaining not just status but a steady stream of advantages that came with it.
Ambition gleamed in Lyman’s eyes as he strutted across the hall, every step radiating self-importance, like a peacock in full display. He regarded the guests with thinly veiled contempt, carrying himself as though no one in attendance could measure up.
Annoyance flickered in the eyes of several guests, their expressions souring beneath the weight of his arrogance.
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