Chapter 125
The steady flow of arriving guests brought genuine smiles to Diana and Lawrence's faces.
Exactly as the Sinclair family had anticipated, they hadn't forgotten Margaret's birthday.
Truth be told, after decades of celebrating it, forgetting was simply impossible.
That's why today's housewarming party wasn't accidental timing at all.
They still seethed remembering how their carefully planned move across from the Sinclairs got disrupted by Isabella's interference and Alexander's unexpected assistance.
But Alexander more than compensated, ironically leaving them in a better position than before.
This made them even more pleased about scheduling their housewarming to clash with the Sinclairs' event and successfully poaching their guests.
Their party must be nearly deserted by now. Genevieve suppressed a smirk. Couldn't even retain their own guests - after all that effort. How utterly humiliating. Once word spread, everyone would know the Sinclairs had lost both influence and connections. Who'd want to associate with them then?
Penelope clapped and laughed. "Absolutely right."
Though the Kensingtons had invited Salzburg's elite, most were unfamiliar faces.
Tonight's housewarming doubled as a networking opportunity.
Victoria wore the diamond bracelet Alexander had purchased for her at the auction.
Many knew Alexander had spent over 400 million dollars acquiring four prized lots that evening.
Seeing his devotion to Victoria, numerous guests sought to curry favor.
Noticing her bracelet, they gushed, "That piece complements you perfectly, Ms. Kensington. Mr. Whitmore has impeccable taste."
Though clearly flattery, Victoria's beauty enhanced anything she wore. Her elegant ensemble tonight made the diamonds sparkle brighter, accentuating her regal presence.
"Thank you," Victoria responded.
Many had researched the Kensingtons' preferences beforehand.
Several knew Beatrice had a passion for antiques.
Someone remarked, "I heard Madam Kensington collects antiques. Was that Ming vase from last week's auction acquired specifically for her?"
The phrasing implied Alexander already considered himself part of the Kensington family.
Victoria nodded. "Indeed it was."
Beatrice genuinely adored that vase.
Just imagining the antique brought a smile to her face.
A 100-million-dollar treasure, after all.
Alexander's devotion to Victoria was undeniable.
Hearing this, Diana felt a twinge of envy.
As Victoria's elder, Beatrice received priceless antiques while she got nothing.
But Victoria had mentioned Alexander purchased two other items that night - both more valuable than the vase.
Alexander knew today was the Kensingtons' housewarming.
Diana assumed at least one of those treasures was meant for them.
This thought lifted her spirits considerably.