Chapter 330: Elias Mercer Swiftly Steadied Clara Whitmore by the Small of Her Back

Elias Mercer swiftly steadied Clara Whitmore by the small of her back. The warmth from his palm radiated comforting heat.

Clara staggered slightly but quickly regained her balance.

"Careful," he murmured, withdrawing his hand.

She smoothed her skirt. "Thank you."

Theo Marsh immediately sidled up. "Need an arm to lean on, Clara? I'm much steadier than the floor."

Celia Monroe's nails dug into her palms as she glared at Clara's waistline.

Across the dining table, Felix Moreau watched Celia's untouched plate with concern. "The steamed perch is quite fresh today. Would you like to try some?"

"Shut up!"

Celia violently shoved away the chopsticks he offered.

"Whether I eat or not is none of your business!"

Felix froze, utensils suspended midair.

The others continued eating in silence, accustomed to such scenes.

Elias gave Felix a fleeting glance before looking away.

Clara savored the foie gras with closed eyes.

Truly worthy of an award-winning chef.

* * *

That weekend afternoon, Clara received a call from her father.

"Sweetheart! Incredible news!"

Daniel Whitmore's voice vibrated with barely contained excitement.

"Our old house is being demolished for redevelopment!"

Clara gasped on cue. "Really?"

"The commercial land compensation is estimated at 1.5 million! Thank goodness we didn't listen to that agent who pressured us to sell."

Clara remembered something. "What about Brooke Walsh's family?"

Daniel chuckled darkly. "She's miserable! Sold her place dirt cheap last month—right before the demolition announcement."

"The kicker? The buyer was that same agent!"

"Now she's protesting outside the neighborhood daily, threatening fraud lawsuits."

Clara shook her head gently.

Some people inevitably reap what they sow.