Robert's expression darkened and he gently stilled her trembling hands. With a gentle voice he said, "Diana, I gave it to you. It’s yours. There’s no need to care about what others think.”
Then, he turned to me and stared angrily at me, "It's just a sapphire, Trudy. I didn't realize the Peyton Family's eldest daughter was so petty. She is making a scene over a piece of jewelry."
“This stone belongs to the Lockman Family and it was passed down to me,” he continued coldly. “I'm the one who decides who gets it. Since you and I aren’t married yet, don’t ever think you have any claim to it. Frankly, I think it suits Diana better.”
He continued, "I’ve already agreed to marry you. Isn’t that enough? Does it really matter if I give a necklace to someone else? The position of Mrs. Lockman is yours. What more could you possibly want?”
Diana’s tears shimmered in her eyes as her lips curled into a faint smile. “Really? My concert gown happens to be blue. This necklace will match it perfectly. Thank you, Robbie. You’re the only one who truly understands me.”
I raised my feet and said, "Forgive me. I don't have any intention. I was just marveling at how deeply you feel for Diana. You don't have to overreact."
As I said that, I pushed the jewelry box toward Diana. "These earrings are made from the leftover of the same gemstone of the Lockman Family's heirloom. Since they’re part of the set, you should keep them too. After all, it wouldn’t feel right to break up such a perfect match.”
Diana bit her lip. "Trudy, even though Robbie said this necklace was a gift for me, I know it was supposed to be your engagement present. Don’t worry, I’ll return it to you after my concert. Would that make you feel better?”
Before I could respond, one of Robert’s friends piped up, his tone laced with mockery. “Oh, come on, Trudy. It’s just a necklace. Why the sour face? Look! You’ve made things so awkward for everyone. Are you only happy when everyone else is miserable?”
Another one chimed in, “Exactly. You call yourself the eldest daughter of the Peyton Family, huh? Is the Peyton Family going bankrupt or something? It's so embarrassing that you're clinging to the Lockman Family’s heirloom like your life depends on it.”