Regret Came Too Late

With that, Jodie turned and walked away.

This wasn't like Jodie at all. She had always hated Grace-so why pull her punches now, when she had the perfect chance?

A flicker of unease rose in Grace's chest. Then, Daphne's voice rang out, sharp and mocking.

"I still don't get how someone like you has the nerve to show up here."

Jodie might have stepped aside, but Daphne wasn't going to. She marched up, arm swinging as Grace's hand shot out and caught her wrist.

Daphne's temper flared-only then did she realize how strong Grace really was. She couldn't even break free.

"Let go of me, Grace! Or I swear I'll call my brother!"

Surprisingly, Grace did let go, but Daphne had pulled so hard that she stumbled back and landed flat on the floor.

She was wearing a gown with a wide hem, so the fall was anything but subtle.

Her cheeks burned with shame as she wobbled to her feet, glaring at Grace while people nearby whispered behind their hands.

She felt completely humiliated.

the crowd, and suddenly welled up

didn't you

turned to look,

looking every bit like a

darkened as he prepared to give Grace a lesson, but Julian tugged on his

said lightly, "What's the point of meddling in

Simon

his eyes. There

Deneath Julian's

way

when things got

shot Daphne a curt reply. "Sort

ét

of the Yule family. Acting close with him wasjust her way

to Simon just to keep herself known in

Simon hadn't lifted a finger

upper floor, Jodie watched with a satisfied smile tugging at her lips. She hadn't changed her dress yet, but seeing the resentment on Daphne's face was enough to make her

leaned toward a waiter and whispered