Therefore, with an air of magnanimity, Ruby Gregory smiled slightly and was about to speak. However, Steve Burton, who had been quietly eating his breakfast across the table, suddenly put down his spoon. Somewhat surprised, he looked at Olivia Foster, then turned to his cousin-in-law and asked innocently, "Olivia Foster is younger than Ruby Gregory? If you hadn't said, I would never have guessed. I've always thought that Olivia Foster was older both than Madeleine and Ruby!"
All present were astute individuals. They all understood the implication of Steve's words that Olivia Foster looked older than Ruby Gregory and Madeleine.
This was typical of Steve: silent until he suddenly shocked others with his words.
The atmosphere, initially filled with awkwardness, was about to be diffused by his cousin-in-law's tactful subject-changing skills. However, his cruel, harsh words caught everyone off guard and dragged the room back into an awkward silence.
