Chapter 155: Maison de Corcelle
The long iron gates of Maison de Corcelle swung open with a soft groan, revealing the sprawling estate beyond — a world apart from the modest surroundings Seraphina had grown used to. The manicured gardens glittered under the afternoon sun, fountains murmured in perfect harmony, and the grand mansion rose proudly like a jewel carved from cream - colored stone.
Seraphina's breath caught. She had heard the whispers — how the Ainsleys were filthy rich — but this was different. This was a show of wealth so unabashed it almost made her chest tighten with something like envy. Not envy exactly; more like surprise, and something more complicated she couldn't quite name.
She had often heard the Ainsleys mocked, derided for their lack of pedigree, called flashy upstarts with no real legacy. Yet here she was, stepping inside a home that looked like a palace, a place that seemed to throb with old money's pulse despite what the tongues said.
Seraphina adjusted the strap of her dress, smoothing her skirt as they crossed the threshold. Eva walked beside her, skipping lightly, her pale gray eyes wide with excitement and a hint of mischief. Aunt Vivienne followed close behind, heels clicking confidently on the marble floor, with Briony trailing, already scouting the artwork with a critic's eye.
" My older brother should be here," Vivienne said with a teasing smile as they entered the grand foyer. "But thankfully, he's out of town."
Seraphina's heart gave a small jump of relief. Uncle Reginald's cold, calculating presence was something she'd hoped to avoid. He had been a shadow over Eva, distant and unforgiving, and Seraphina was quietly glad he wasn't here to put that same chill on this dazzling scene.
"Poor Eva," Briony said with a mock pout. "Her papa's absence is the only mercy in this place."
"Cold as a winter's frost," Vivienne agreed with a smirk. "But here, it's all warmth and show."
Seraphina glanced at Eva, who was grinning as she took in every corner, already imagining secret rooms, hidden passageways, and who - knows - what mysteries waiting to be uncovered.
They were led into a sitting room that seemed more like a throne room — high ceilings, chandeliers dripping with crystals, walls lined with tapestries and paintings. A fire crackled gently in the hearth, and a faint scent of jasmine and old leather lingered.
Eva plopped down on a velvet chaise lounge and stretched luxuriously. "This is better than any castle I've read about."
Vivienne laughed softly, dropping onto a nearby armchair. "Maison de Corcelle has a way of making even the most stoic feel like royalty."
Seraphina felt a prickle of unease but also an undeniable thrill. Despite all the snide remarks from her parents about the Ainsleys' lack of pedigree, here was a family unashamed to show what they had — and maybe, just maybe, the power that came with it.
Her thoughts drifted as Evelyn entered, elegant and poised, greeting them with a warm smile. "Bienvenue," she said, her eyes flicking to Seraphina with something unreadable. "I'm so glad you could join us."
Seraphina forced a polite nod, returning the greeting without emotion. She knew Evelyn well — long before this and she'd never forget how different this woman seemed from her own parents, even from Aunt Vivienne.
Evelyn's gaze settled on Eva, and her smile deepened. "You were magnificent at the Académie. Everyone is still talking about your performance."
Eva's cheeks flushed pink but she held her chin high. "Thank you, Maman."
Vivienne leaned in, teasing, "Did you see how Briony tried to adopt her on the spot? She's got competition."
Briony grinned. "I'm just waiting for the invitation to the wedding."
Seraphina chuckled softly, watching Eva bask in the adult banter, the teasing and warmth that seemed so natural here.
"You're spoiling her," Seraphina said, elbowing Eva gently.
"She deserves it," Eva replied with a smirk. "I'm the star of the show."
"An insufferable star," Briony added with a wink.
Seraphina's eyes flicked to Evelyn again. The way she carried herself, the secrets tucked behind that poised smile, the way her eyes softened only for Eva — it all whispered of hidden stories, power, and something unspoken.
"You know," Evelyn said, her voice light but pointed, "there's more to this family than meets the eye. People like to talk about pedigree, legacy… but what truly matters is the strength you carry inside."
Seraphina's jaw tightened, remembering her parents' harsh words. The Ainsleys might be mocked, but it was clear they commanded respect in ways her own family couldn't.
Eva reached for Seraphina's hand, squeezing it gently. "You like it here?"
Seraphina nodded, hiding a smile. "It's… different."
"Different is good," Eva whispered, eyes shining. "Like us."
Vivienne smirked, raising an eyebrow. "Speaking of different, I think it's time to show you both the real heart of Maison de Corcelle."
She stood, gesturing for them to follow down a long hallway lined with ancestral portraits and gleaming mirrors. "Secrets, surprises, and maybe a little magic."
Seraphina glanced at Eva, who was practically bouncing with anticipation.
"Just don't tell your papa," Vivienne added with a sly grin. "He'd faint if he saw what we have planned."
As they entered a hidden library — a room filled floor to ceiling with ancient books, rare manuscripts, and delicate artifacts — Seraphina felt like she was stepping into another world. The air smelled of knowledge and history, and a faint glow emanated from a crystal lamp.
"This is where the real power hides," Vivienne said softly.
Eva ran her fingers along the spines of the books. "It's like a treasure trove."
"Exactly," Evelyn said, joining them with a knowing smile. "And it's ours."
Seraphina's mind raced, a mix of awe and curiosity flooding her senses. The Ainsleys weren't just wealthy; they were guardians of something deeper, something rare.
Her thoughts drifted back to her parents' snide remarks about pedigree and legacy. Maybe they were right, but only in their limited way. This family was legacy incarnate — just not the kind you could buy or inherit easily.
"Does it ever get lonely?" Seraphina asked quietly, glancing at Eva.
Eva shrugged, eyes gleaming. "Sometimes. But not when I have you."
Seraphina smiled, squeezing her hand. "I'm here."
Evelyn watched them with soft eyes, then broke into a warm laugh. "Well, enough solemnity. It's time to eat before Vivienne starts turning this mansion upside down."
Vivienne raised her hands in mock surrender. "I'm innocent."
Briony grinned. "Innocent until proven otherwise."
They moved toward the dining room, where a feast awaited — fine c••••, crystal glasses, platters piled high with delicacies.
As they ate, the adults traded barbs and teasing glances, their laughter ringing out, warm and genuine.
"You two children are quite the pair," Evelyn said, eyes twinkling as she watched Seraphina and Eva exchange playful smiles.
Vivienne nodded. "A dangerous combination of charm and stubbornness."
Briony smirked. "Don't forget musical genius."
Eva grinned, "I prefer mysterious enigma."
Seraphina rolled her eyes, but there was no hiding her happiness.
Later, as the sun dipped behind the trees, Seraphina sat with Eva on a balcony overlooking the estate.
"I get it now," Seraphina murmured, voice soft. "Why your family shows off so much. It's not just about money. It's about being seen for who they really are."
Eva nodded, eyes on the horizon. "Exactly. And you're part of it now."
Seraphina smiled, leaning her head on Eva's shoulder. "My little moonbeam."
Eva squeezed her hand. "Always."
Inside, the mansion held its secrets close —but for once, Seraphina felt like she was starting to understand the story behind the glitter, the laughter, and the whispered power of Maison de Corcelle.