Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

In the late afternoon glow, Aubree buzzed Brielle's phone, suggesting a casual jaunt to the mall.

Brielle felt the urge to decline, but Aubree was like a whirlwind, sweeping into Stellar Stage Entertainment and whisking her away without a moment's hesitation.

Amid the bustling crowds weaving through the shopping center, Brielle felt as if she had stepped into another era.

Ever the bold spirit, Aubree tugged her along, bee-lining straight for the women's fashion section.

"Guess what? My foster mom just rocked my world. She's giving me five percent of the Clements family fortune. That's billions, with a 'b'! I can literally live off this and never work another day. Bri, pick something out, it's on me. We're going top shelf, no skimping." Joy painted Aubree's face as she reached for a dress with a price tag that screamed luxury.

After draping it over Brielle, she nodded in approval. "Perfect fit. It's a done deal."

Brielle seldom wore dresses, preferring the practicality of pantsuits a testament to her years in the corporate trenches.

As she attempted to return the dress, insisting it wasn't necessary, a hand suddenly snatched it from her grasp.

She followed the hand to its owner and locked eyes with Alivia.

Radiating a stark contrast to Brielle's somber mood, Alivia was the picture of vitality, flanked by several high-profile ladies from Beaconsfield's social elite-all familiar faces to Brielle.

Alivia arched an eyebrow, a smirk unfolding across her lips. "Fancy seeing you here, Brielle. I thought you'd left Beaconsfield for good."

Max were history, Alivia no longer

these rich ladies, each worth a cool billion, Brielle was no more than refuse-an afterthought unworthy of their attention. The ladies behind Alivia giggled behind their

about the split with Max, tsk tsk. Weren't you on top of

covet what they can't

you owe us an apology for your past slights. No one's got your back now. You're just

Brielle. Her eyebrow quirked in amusement. "What's with all the

faces stiffened, their eyes

stepped forward, hand raised to strike Brielle's cheek, but Brielle was quicker, her slap resonating with a

glanced at Aubree, who

you're footing the bill today, right?

shock gave way to wild elation. "Hell yeah! I'm rolling in

hesitating, Brielle

her abdomen. Aubree

Brielle was unmatched. Aubree's sparring sessions with Andrew

were unaccustomed to such

agony and disbelief, was convinced Brielle had lost her mind

Damn it all!

could crush Brielle.