As for setting up the lunch, Reuben was tied up driving. How could he be aware of the arrangements inside the mansion?

Still, wasn't stretching the truth a bit better if it shielded Barbara from more embarrassment?

“Reuben, well done. Just ensure Maria's escorted back," Barbara whispered to Reuben, discreetly pointing at Maria.

“Yes, ma'am." Reuben immediately nodded, indicating his understanding.

At this moment, the Jenkins family members were making their way to the main hall for the luncheon.

Maria and Julie were deep in conversation while getting ready to join the crowd.

As they walked on, Reuben intercepted them.

“What's going on?" Maria inquired with a blank look.

Reuben, showing a mischievous grin, pointed in the direction of the Lemna Yard.

"Miss Jenkins, after acing your exam, you deserve a break.

Why not rest in the Lemna Yard for a while?"

Julie raised an eyebrow.

"I thought there was a Luncheon. Aren't we invited?"

Still smiling, Reuben replied, "It's just a meal, isn't it? Why not head back to the Lemna Yard? I'll arrange for our top chef to whip up something extraordinary just for you."

From his tone and demeanor, it was clear to anyone observing that Reuben preferred Maria away from the Luncheon.

It might be truer to say Mrs. Jenkins simply didn't wish for Maria's presence in the event.

"So, the welcome earlier was only for Barbara? And this lunch is just to toast her achievements? Maria has accomplished so much more.

Why doesn't she get her moment of recognition in front of the family?"

Julie was getting angry.

Though she held an innocent heart and didn't have any ulterior motives, being raised by a prestigious family made Julie well-versed in the subtle manipulations of power dynamics.

It seemed that Mrs. Jenkins aimed to overshadow Maria's achievements, hoping perhaps that over time, the family might overlook Maria entirely.

Reuben just smiled in response, saying nothing.

Had Julie caught on to his ploys?

Yet, even if she had, what could be done?