Nonetheless, Vivian noticed Maria and Anthony the second they came in. As much as she wanted to sneer at them, she had decided to hide it and pretended she didn't see them either.

After all, it was part of her plan to arrive half an hour earlier than them so she could win the favor of Lorraine first. She figured this was an excellent opportunity to embarrass Maria.

“Auntie, thank you for receiving us here even though you're not really feeling well."

Vivian faked a mirthless smile as she handed her a gift she had prepared.

“This is the collection of poems of Bright Lake. It's sold only in the headquarters of Broome Bookstore, so I bought it as a special gift for you."

Bright Lake was a famous scenic spot on the campus of Lorraine‘’s old school.

This collection documented the works of the most famous scholars of the university in the past hundred years.

Moreover, these people had been big names in the field of Literature at different ages.

"Oh, thank you. Did you know that I Like this collection of poems very much? I've been longing to have this for some time now."

Lorraine let out a faint smile as she took the gift given to her.

“Really? I'm glad that you like it!" Vivian behaved obediently, as if she was such a sweet girl. She acted so familiar with Lorraine that she could even throw herself into Lorraine's arms, like a spoiled child.

But then Vivian suddenly looked at Maria and asked on purpose, “Maria, let us see your gift to Aunt Lorraine. Come on. Don't be shy!”

Before saying this, Vivian had already peeked at them from the corner of her eye right after they came in. Realizing that Maria and Anthony were empty handed, she quickly formulated a plan to her advantage.

Maria should have showed some respect when paying a family elder a visit. Even if Lorraine wouldn't mind it, Vivian had no intention of letting it go. In fact, she was trying to humiliate Maria again by making Lorraine believe that Maria wasn't someone on the same Level as this noble family.

"Well..." Ron also realized that both Maria and Anthony were empty handed. At a glance, one could infer that they didn't bring anything. Why would Vivian deliberately ask for something they didn't have?

Deep inside, he was kind-hearted, so he didn't think that Vivian was doing this on purpose. However, he also began to feel worried and sorry for the two.

It was a pity that although Ron was very smooth when it came to joking and teasing, this was the kind of situation that he wouldn't be helpful.

Although he was trying to rack his brains to come up with something, he didn't know how he could smooth things over.

Seeing the awkwardness on Ron's face, Vivian became more complacent. Her hunch was spot on that Maria and Anthony really came without bringing anything.

She was afraid that Lorraine would say that it didn't really matter. After all, her brilliant scheme would be in vain then. Therefore, she spoke again, making the situation even worse for Maria.