Chapter 240: The Tea Master's Proof

"Magnificent!"

"This is what a true tea master looks like!"

Mrs. Cardenas, owner of Cardenas Furniture, came from a long line of tea farmers. Having grown up in tea plantations, she held tea ceremonies to an almost impossibly high standard. She'd come today specifically to witness the legendary skills of the rumored tea master.

When she saw a young woman take the stage, Mrs. Cardenas frowned slightly. What could someone so young possibly know about tea? Probably just flashy tricks without substance.

But as Clara Whitmore began her demonstration, Mrs. Cardenas' eyes widened.

Those delicate hands moved with effortless grace through each step—water temperature, timing, technique—all executed with astonishing precision. Even more impressive was how eloquently she explained the philosophy behind each movement, quoting classical texts that revealed her profound knowledge.

Mrs. Cardenas had met too many so-called "tea masters" who could only spout empty theories but faltered in practice. This girl, however, was the real deal.

Clara descended the stage with calm composure and walked straight to Paige Lawson.

"Now, do you still question my certification?"

Paige's face turned ghostly pale as she instinctively took two steps back.

"Time to honor your promise," Clara said, her voice steady. "You said if I proved myself, you'd apologize publicly."

Paige's back was drenched in cold sweat. She never imagined this seemingly ordinary girl possessed such mastery of tea arts.

Catherine Holloway was equally stunned. When Clara had been with her son, she'd been utterly unremarkable. How had she transformed into someone entirely different after leaving?

As Clara quoted ancient texts onstage, Catherine understood for the first time what "poetic temperament" truly meant. That innate confidence and elegance radiating from within made her feel ashamed of her own pettiness.

"Fine, I admit you're skilled!" Paige's voice trembled. "Must you be so relentless?"

Before Clara could respond, Mrs. Cardenas slammed the table and stood. "What insolence! You were the one who challenged her, and now you want to backtrack?"

Other society ladies quickly joined in: "Exactly! Look at how accomplished Ms. Whitmore is—some people should check their reflections!"

The wave of criticism grew louder, soon pulling Catherine into its tide...