The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2723

“Regina, I just didn't think the portrait was fitting anymore, so I had the servants take it down. The house is full of people now, and it just seems odd to have a family portrait of you three when we have guests over. It sends the wrong message, you know? I talked it over with your father before doing anything, and he agreed with me."

Imogen's smug look made Regina's skin crawl.

"His agreement doesn't matter. I don't agree! Where is my painting?"

Imogen waved a dismissive hand, her arrogance unwavering. "Oh, the servants must have stashed it away somewhere after I instructed them to remove it. Who knows where it is now? The painting has lost its relevance, hasn't it?"

The gleam in her eye was nothing short of provocative, her implications clear as day - a jab at the fact that Regina's mother was no longer with them.

Regina's hand itched to slap Imogen to make her pay, but she held back, clenching her fist instead and storming off to find the butler.

Once Regina was out of earshot, Imogen patted her chest, whispering, "Lord, that was terrifying. She nearly hit me. I thought she'd gone mad."

Just then, Madeline stumbled down from the second floor, rubbing her eyes. "Mom, what was all that noise about? I was trying to sleep, and you woke me up. Can't you keep it down?"

Upon seeing Madeline, Imogen quickly ushered her back to her room.

"Go on, back to your room. Regina's painting has gone missing, and heaven knows what kind of scene she'll cause. Better to stay out of her way!"

Madeline perked up at the mention of Regina's return. "She's back, huh? The nerve of her, after everything she's done. Fighting over a man with her own sister? All this fuss over a painting... Honestly, it's disgraceful. She even tried to seduce Nolan! Mom, you've got to make sure Dad sets him up with me. I've got my eye on him. Next time it comes up, you better speak up for me. Don't let Dad think about pairing him off with Regina."