In the Lap of Luxury by Unsweetened Chestnuts

Now, because of Grace's provocation, Jessica had to tighten her belt for the next three months.

As Grace watched the commotion, she initially enjoyed the scene until she noticed the card Jessica used. Then, her smile faded.

Emily noticed the change and asked, "What's wrong?"

"That card. It looks familiar," Grace mused, unable to recall where she had seen it.

Emily wanted a closer look, but Jessica had already tucked it away.

Jessica approached Grace with a smug look, holding her new bag.

"See, I've paid for it. Don't end up buying something cheaper than me, Ms. Lewis. That would be quite embarrassing!" Sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ (ꜰind)ɴʘvel.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

Grace remained unfazed and walked into the store, instructing the clerk to wrap up a handbag she had previously eyed. It was a medium-priced bag she liked for its unique and elegant design. Jessica scoffed. "That's only two thousand dollars. That's all?"

Grace looked puzzled and answered, "I'm here to pick something I like, not to compete with you, Ms. Landon. Is there a problem?"

Jessica realized she had been outsmarted by Grace again.

Pamore's social circles would surely buzz about this for the next few months.

been able to beat

Grace and asked, "Is she

do you know

personally, but

people in her four decades in this circle. She found Jessica peculiarly familiar, yet she couldn't place her anywhere. "By the way, I had some ladies over

the cue, Emily took the

"What news?"

visiting Meco frequently. He lost a lot of money and is on the brink of bankruptcy." Gossip among women might seem trivial, but

of her rivalry with Samuel and was giving her this

was fast. It turned

"Does anyone else know?"

sure it

you, Mrs. Thorne. I know

"The boy's birthday is next month.

was Esme's way of formally announcing her guardianship of

"I'll be there."

car, Emily asked in surprise, "Mrs. Thorne is really going to raise her

choice," Grace speculated. "She's almost 40 years old