Chapter 51 Embroidery Unraveled
Chapter 51 Embroidery Unraveled
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Numerous murmurs filled the air, but the mere mention of “Lily Campbell” drew even more noble ladies closer, eager to admire..
This delighted Mrs. Shield’s vanity, prompting her to gesture for Mrs. Swenson to unveil the sandalwood box for all to behold.
“Ms. Shield truly possesses exquisite taste, unlike some provincial individuals who likely remain oblivious to Master Lily’s renown,” remarked one guest, her tone tinged with subtle disdain.
“The intricacy of this embroidery is unparalleled, a testament to Lily Campbell’s mastery,” another chimed in, marveling at the craftsmanship. “It’s a pity she no longer practices; having a worthy successor would be a boon.”
“Absolutely stunning. This is actually one of the most challenging forms of double–sided embroidery. On the front, we have Lily’s signature lotus flower, a timeless classic, while on the back, there are intricately embroidered deer in the forest, symbolizing good fortune and health. Ms. Shield’s taste truly shines through in selecting such a masterpiece.”
“Young people these days are so impatient. Who would dedicate years to mastering a skill that machines could easily replicate? Embroidery is incredibly delicate; one small mistake could destroy hours of work. It’s no wonder most people lack the patience for it.”
“Embroidery is an intangible cultural heritage, yet fewer people seem to appreciate its beauty. Instead, everyone is fixated on foreign brand items of clothing that merely follow fleeting fashion trends. Who still values and respects our cultural traditions?”
“Some foreign brands shamelessly exploit our country’s culture to boost sales. It’s just copying, not genuine appreciation.”
Despite the diverse backgrounds of those present, everyone was captivated by the beauty of the embroidered fabric.
Mrs. Swenson held the fabric aloft as she maneuvered through the crowd, gradually nearing Melody.
Despite her limp, a detail Mrs. Shield had noticed earlier, she refrained from inquiring due to the crowded setting.
Then, a piercing shrick pierced the celebratory air.
“It’s the embroidery Ms. Suzie gifted Mrs. Shield for her birthday, Melody… you’ve ruined it!” Mrs. Swenson’s accusation reverberated through the gathering.
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Chapter 51 Embroidery Unraveled
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All heads turned to witness Mrs. Swenson collapsing to the ground, the precious embroidery in tatters at Melody’s feet.
Suspicion fell upon Melody, whose heels hovered perilously close to the torn fabric.
Initially, it appeared as though Melody’s heels had inadvertently torn the fabric.
But what reason could Melody possibly have had to tear the fabric?
“Ms. Melody, I know you’ve always harbored jealousy toward Ms. Suzie, fearing that her gift would overshadow yours and steal your spotlight in Mrs. Shield’s eyes!”
“But you
shouldn’t have capitalized on my accidental fall to use your high heels to damage the embroidery fabric intentionally…”
Mrs. Swenson’s words stoked Mrs. Shield’s fury.
Seizing a nearby teacup, she hurled its scalding contents at Melody in a fit of rage. “Bringer of misfortune! This masterpiece by Lily Campbell is beyond your means to compensate. You Lowe Suzie–how do you intend to repay her?”
Melody was about to dodge the accusation swiftly.
A tall, slender figure suddenly lunged forward, enveloping her in a tight embrace.
Through the tight grip, she caught a muffled groan in her ear.
The scalding hot tea splattered across Gary’s back, his choice of a short–sleeved T–shirt ill- suited for the frigid weather.
His skin reddened instantly, beads of cold sweat forming on his brow.
Mrs. Shield, in a state of panic, cried out, “Gary!”
“Why did you have to intervene?!” she demanded, her voice fraught with concern. “Quick, someone fetches the family doctor!”
“My dear grandson, are you hurt?” she implored, her distress evident.
Gary shielded Melody, fully aware of her current indifference towards him, deliberately maintaining a distance.
His gaze lowered, and his voice strained; he muttered, “Mel, it’s my turn to protect you
this
time.”
Despite his trembling frame and the beads of sweat trickling down his jawline, his eyes bore into Melody’s with unwavering determination and sincerity.
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Chapter 51 Embroidery Unraveled
“Don’t worry about me; I’m fine,” he insisted, his voice barely above a whisper.
Melody gently pushed him away, her brow furrowing in consternation. “Gary, I’m not concerned about you,” she retorted, her tone resolute.
“You didn’t have to intervene,” she added, her demeanor composed.
Inwardly, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of amusement.
Even if Gary hadn’t acted, she could have easily avoided the onslaught.
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But why had he intervened to shield her? What did he hope to achieve by putting himself in harm’s way?
With tears welling in her eyes, Suzanna stepped forward, reaching out tenderly for Gary’s hand. “Gary….are you alright?”
Gary, however, forcefully withdrew his hand from Suzanna’s grasp, meeting her innocent yet concerned gaze with coldness and complexity. His shattered expression betrayed a umultuous inner conflict.
“Suzanna, was it you again?” he demanded, his voice laced with accusation.
Suzanna recoiled in disbelief, her hand instinctively flying to cover her mouth as tears streamed down her cheeks.
She staggered back, her eyes reddened with shock. “Gary, what do you mean?”
“I don’t understand…”
