Luca covered his mouth as he yawned.
"Stop that, will you?" his mother reprimanded him.
"But this party is boring. Everyone just wants to gloat about their achievements—if not, then the achievements of their children, or how smart they are," Luca complained.
"Shawn Gabriel Lockhart, watch your mouth," his mother, Sabrina Lockhart, reprimanded him again.
She exudes an air of grace, her posture poised yet unassuming.
Her light brown eyes shimmer like soft sunlight filtering through amber glass, carrying a warmth that immediately puts those around her at ease. Her brown hair cascades in soft waves, framing a face marked by delicate features and a serene smile that speaks of kindness and understanding.
Luca Atkinson's real name was Shawn Gabriel Lockhart, the second child of Sabrina Lockhart and Dominick Lockhart. Without his contact lenses to change the color of his eyes to black, one can see that his light brown eyes perfectly reflect Sabrina's.
Shawn pursed his lips, looking sheepish but saying nothing more.
"Look at your grandfather," Dominick said, approaching his son and wife as he pointed at his father.
He stands with effortless confidence, his demeanor radiating sophistication and self-assurance. His jet-black hair is neatly styled in a classic tapered cut, the sides trimmed short while the top is combed back with precision, exuding professionalism and timeless elegance. His equally dark eyes hold a sharp, penetrating gaze, reflecting both intelligence and an unshakable determination.
Shawn has the looks of his father but has the hair and eye color of his mother.
Shawn and Sabrina turned to where he was pointing.
There, his grandfather, Jonathan Lockhart, was laughing heartily while gesturing toward Shawn and his sister, Aisha Gabrielle Lockhart, who stood across the room.
She carries herself with quiet grace, her posture effortlessly poised yet filled with youthful energy. Her jet-black eyes gleam with the brightness and warmth drawing people in and making them feel instantly comfortable.
Her jet-black hair, though still soft and flowing, has a youthful bounce, framing her face with a freshness that complements her delicate features. A natural, gentle smile is ever-present, reflecting a kindness that radiates from within.
Unlike Shawn, Aisha has the hair and eye color of her father.
"Yes, Aisha just received another award the other day for her piano skills, while also earning recognition for her studies. Shawn did great too, entering the best medical university in City D. He was also the top scorer in the exam."
Jonathan proudly nodded, his smile widening.
"Kade and Regina are both gaining recognition in their respective fields. This year is truly a wonderful blessing, having such exceptional grandchildren."
Once again, he laughed, clearly enjoying himself.
Sabrina turned to her son with a raised brow. In turn, he chuckled while shaking his head, not surprised by his grandfather's enthusiasm.
"It seems that Mister Jonathan Lockhart still loves to talk about his grandchildren."
The three of them turned to see who had spoken, and their smiles dimmed slightly when they saw none other than Minerva Morgrave, the proud mother of Wynter Morgrave.
With piercing eyes that glint like shards of glass, she exudes an aura of coldness and untouchable grace. Her elegantly styled hair, always perfectly in place, frames a face that is both strikingly beautiful and unnervingly stern.
"Good evening, Madam Morgrave," Shawn greeted amicably, his tone polite.
Minerva smiled at him, "Good evening. I see that you are following in the footsteps of your parents by entering the medical field."
"It's been a dream since childhood, madam," he replied, maintaining his courteous demeanor.
"But I guess Miss Lockhart is not doing the same," Minerva pointed out, her gaze flickering slightly.
"Though I suppose it's natural since you allowed the younger Mister Ashcroft to do the same, stepping away from their family business and entering your field," she added, referring to another family.
Aisha was pursuing a degree in Computer Science, something that was both unusual and unexpected in their family.
Sabrina and Dominick's smiles faltered ever so slightly but remained polite.
This country had four major families that held greater wealth among the elite:
The Morgrave Family reigned over the IT world, both hardware and software.
The Lockhart Family dominated the medical field.
The Ashcroft Family controlled the entertainment industry.
The Frostmoor Family ruled the real estate sector.
Each family wielded significant influence across the country and beyond.
Thus, Minerva Morgrave's remark about Aisha's chosen field was akin to questioning why she was stepping into their domain, even if indirectly. And the comment about the younger Mister Ashcroft entering the medical field, stepping into the Lockhart Family's domain.
"Well, isn't it normal for everyone to pursue their dreams? I mean, Miss Morgrave is also exploring different fields," Sabrina replied with her well-practiced smile.
Minerva smiled again, exuding confidence.
"She will be following in our footsteps. We're just letting her explore a bit, but she'll take up business management and support the company in the future."
Shawn's brows furrowed slightly. The confidence in her tone made it sound as though Wynter had no choice in the matter, which he found unsettling.
Sabrina maintained her smile, "I suppose that is how things work in your family. We, however, wish for our children to enjoy whatever path they choose. No matter the field, we'll support them wholeheartedly. The same goes for other children."
This time, Minerva's confident smile wavered, faltering slightly.
"And that's why my father-in-law takes so much pride in boasting about his grandchildren. They find happiness in what they do, and the fulfillment they gain from their achievements is not just ours or their grandparents', but theirs as well," Sabrina continued smoothly, her tone both firm and elegant.
Minerva's smile faltered entirely, and she seemed taken aback, "What are you implying with your words?"
Sabrina shrugged gracefully, "I'm not implying anything. I wonder what you think by my words?"
Shawn and Dominick exchanged proud glances.
Sabrina had won this round without any doubt.
Minerva forced a smile, trying to recover, "I see. Then I shall take my leave."
Sabrina smiled graciously, "Have a wonderful year ahead."
Minerva briskly walked toward her daughter, Wynter Morgrave.
They watched her lean close and whisper something into Wynter's ear. Wynter, who had been smiling while conversing with others, faltered slightly before her smile grew even brighter as she resumed talking with the attendees.
"I somehow feel bad for the child," Sabrina remarked, shaking her head thoughtfully.
They could tell Minerva had likely told Wynter to smile more after her exchange with their family.
"It's bright, but there seems to be a wall surrounding her," Dominick sighed, adding his observation.
"She's the doll princess of the country—perfect in almost everything. Not too perfect to reduce expectations, but close enough to showcase her family's capabilities," Sabrina added, her tone tinged with sympathy.
Shawn glanced at Wynter and shook his head slightly.
When Justin had asked about her, Shawn had only described how others perceived her, as that was the image she always presented to the world.
But he and his family sensed that no one truly knew who Wynter Morgrave was. A person who attracts attention but remains shrouded in a thin layer of mystery.
Even so, he knew it wasn't his place to speculate about her, so he chose to echo the public's perception.
"Good evening, Sir Dominick, Madam Sabrina," another voice greeted them as they reflected on the Morgrave family.
Shawn's face lit up instantly, his earlier boredom evaporating, "I thought you wouldn't make it!"
Sabrina and Dominick chuckled at their son's sudden change of mood, a stark contrast to his earlier demeanor.
"Good evening to you too, Dylan," Dominick greeted warmly.
"You've grown since the last time I saw you," Sabrina added with a kind smile, her tone warm and genuine.