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.

hadn't been able to beat

and asked, "Is she from

do you

personally, but she looks

Jessica peculiarly familiar, yet she couldn't place her anywhere. "By the way, I had some ladies over for

Sensing the cue, Emily

"What news?"

money and is on the brink of bankruptcy." Gossip among women might seem trivial, but it often carried significant and

Esme probably knew of her rivalry with Samuel and was giving her this information

fast. It turned out that

"Does anyone else know?"

sure it didn't

Thorne. I know what to

handed her an invitation. "The boy's birthday is next month. You must

that this was Esme's way of formally announcing

"I'll be there."

really going to raise

speculated. "She's almost 40 years old and childless. Do you think it's