Chapter 84: Quinn’s Schemes

Quinn paced back and forth in her living room, her mind a whirlwind of plans and contingencies. Mrs. Woodwell’s call had only intensified her resolve. The stakes were high, but Quinn was not a woman who shied away from a challenge. Her stern demeanor belied a fierce determination to see her daughter, Gift, secure her place alongside Michael. She picked up her phone and dialed a number. It was time to call in some favors. “Margaret, it’s Quinn,” she said as soon as the line connected. “I need your help with something delicate.” Margaret was an old acquaintance of Quinn, and someone who owed her a favor. They discussed and made arrangements for social gatherings where Quinn could subtly enhance Gift’s standing in the society and, by extension, her closeness to Michael. After the call, Quinn turned her attention to Gift. She found her daughter sitting in the garden, a book in her lap but her eyes distant and lost in thought. “Gift, we need to talk,” Quinn said, her voice brooking no