Chapter 1252

The luncheon for the birthday celebration was scheduled to begin promptly at noon. At twenty to twelve, waiters started moving through the estate, notifying guests to gather in the front courtyard for the meal. Similarly, staff members at Moonshine Pavilion went upstairs to inform the guests in each private room that lunch was about to be served in the front courtyard. Lilian, who had been engrossed in her game, expressed her reluctance to end it just yet. She suggested, "If no one has any other plans this afternoon, how about we continue playing later?" She glanced hopefully at Irene and Wendy as she spoke. Wendy responded, "I don't have any plans for this afternoon. If everyone else is staying, I'll join in as well. I haven't had enough of this game yet." Following Wendy's lead, Lilian's old friend chimed in, "I'm free all day, so it's up to you all." Now, all eyes turned to Irene. Her response would determine if they could continue their game. If she agreed, they would play o