Advice From Natalie

Sephina scoffed. "I've been suffering you for years. If only you were more like Briena." She smiled with pride. "Look how she's brought honor to this family. But you must be jealous, since you couldn't even bring yourself to congratulate her."

Natalie released Albert's hand, giving him a reassuring smile, then stood up with a smirk.

"My mistake. I truly forgot to congratulate my dear sister on her incredible achievement." Natalie turned to face Briena, extending her hand with a smirk. "Congratulations, little sister."

Briena accepted the handshake, but before she could thank her, Natalie continued, "I wish you tremendous success and fame…" Her grip on Briena's hand tightened. "…the kind that you might one day wish you never had."

Briena felt a brief shiver at Natalie's words, but brushed it off, thinking, She's just jealous and can only wish ill upon me. She can't actually do anything.