In the Lap of Luxury by Unsweetened Chestnuts

Unable to find common ground in conversation, they decided to play poker instead.

Wanting to liven things up, Isla made phone calls inviting more people to join. During the waiting period, Grace filled in for two rounds.

"Mrs. Brooke isn't answering her phone. Is something wrong?"

"You don't know? Last night, Mrs. Brooke stormed into Fortress, wielding a knife. It's said that when she arrived, the screens in the lobby were playing a loop of her husband with a woman," Jean recounted excitedly.

"What video?"

"You know, that kind."

The ladies burst into laughter.

"Did she offend someone? The Brooke family has a solid background. Isn't this a slap in their face?"

"Fortress doesn't easily disclose client privacy. Whoever did this must be a big shot."

Grace gazed at the cards in her hand, smiling but saying nothing.

Bored of the women's chatter, Victor excused himself for some fresh air.

a text to Grace. "I'll

two rounds, she politely prepared

just as she was about to stand up, the

"Sorry

that, Grace

full of charm. Though she was aging and had fine lines at the corners of her eyes,

Priscilla replied as she was

rare to see

appreciate how

familiar and hesitated

have some

I'm sorry, ladies."

didn't insist on her staying. As Grace reached the door, she overheard Jean asking, "I heard your son, Jake, had an accident. Is

Jake?

a minor injury. Raymond values him greatly. As soon as he recovered, Raymond sent him abroad to

stepped back. "My

in time, but Isla had already stood up to vacate her seat. "Then, let's enjoy

sat across from Priscilla. "I've met the other ladies before, but I don't believe we've met.