Kate was right that not everyone in that ballroom was a relative. There were still a good amount of Sables by blood or marriage and she was never going to remember any of their names. They were all curious about the prodigal granddaughter who was a hot topic in the media for her dramatic if not illegal love story. Having Theo with her only made things worse as they felt emboldened to ask questions that were downright inappropriate.
Kate had to bite her tongue to not snap at the questions about her mental and emotional instability. There were pointed comments about her life choices and was art even a sustainable career in this economy? She let Theo do the talking. He was brought up to deflect and compliment like a professional liar.
"I heard the ritual would have side effects," some middle-aged rich woman remarked. "Have you experienced anything?"
Theo's smile was permanently on his face. "There have been minor side effects only. There's nothing to worry about."