Chapter 147: Meeting with the Caddel Elders

Kimberly stood outside the grand entrance of the Caddel mansion, her nerves tightening like a coiled spring. The imposing structure loomed over her, its austere architecture a stark reminder of the power and influence wielded within its walls. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the meeting with the family elders, a group of formidable women whose opinions had the ability to reshape the destiny of any Caddel. A servant led her through the dimly lit hallways, adorned with portraits of Caddel ancestors who seemed to watch her every move. The atmosphere was heavy with history and expectation. Finally, she was ushered into a large room where the elders sat in a semicircle, their expressions inscrutable. At the center of the semicircle sat Jacinta Caddel, the family matriarch. Her piercing gaze met Kimberly’s, and a slight nod indicated for her to sit. “Kimberly, thank you for coming on such short notice,” Jacinta began, her voice calm yet commanding. “It’s an honor to be here