When She Stops Playing Nice

Chapter 250
Ashley seethed with frustration, struggling to contain her irritation. “Well, what’s her fancy then?”
“Diamonds.”
Ashley recalled her conversation with Harry, learning that Gabriel had spent a staggering 600 million dollars on a woman who wasn’t even his girlfriend.
The revelation had stunned her, prompting her resolve to return home and size up Gina in person. What sort of woman was she, capable of enchanting Gabriel, who had never shown any inclination toward romance?
Unable to resist a jab, Ashley remarked, “Sounds like she’s got a taste for the pricey stuff, huh?”
Gabriel’s expression darkened. “If you don’t feel like buying a gif, you don’t have to. Gina likes diamonds, but she can afford them herself. She doesn’t need anyone else to lavish them on he
Ashley was left speechless, genuinely grasping the notion of playing favorites.
Swallowing her pride, she muttered, “I didn’t mean anything by it.”
“Fair enough. You know my future sister-in-law better than I do. Care to lend a hand picking something out then?”
With a tug, Ashley pulled Gabriel out of the car.
Scanning the surroundings, Ashley’s gaze settled on Quaria. “Lets try here. Their jewelry is exquisite, and they’re a renowned international brand.”
Gabriel couldn’t suppress a wry smile. Ashley had quite a discerning eye.
With Ashley leading the way, Gabriel followed her into the store.
Ashley deferred to Gabriel’s choice, and he settled on a 373-cara diamond brooch valued at 4 million dollars.
A flicker of disbelief crossed Ashley’s expression. Was she being taken advantage of by offering such an extravagant gift to a woman she barely knew?
Gabriel discerned Ashley’s insincerity. Sensing that she didn’t genuinely intend to gift anything to Gina, he decisively produced his black card.
However, Ashley, out of pride, intercepted Gabriel’s gesture. “What’s this supposed to mean? I said I wanted to give her There’s no reason for you to foot the bill.”
Cabriel graciously withdrew the black card, gesturing for Ashley to proceed with her payment.
With a hint of bitterness, Ashley reluctantly swiped her card, hoping Gina would appreciate the gift despite her ingratitude

In the peaceful ambiance of the Quaria lounge, Gina received a WhatsApp message from Gabriel.
Gabriel: [Ashley’s eager to meet you and brought a gift for you, intending to hand it over personally. She’s suggesting we grab lunch together, Gina, do you mind? If you do, I’ll decline her offer.
Gabriel appended the address of the restaurant, which he had already reserved.
Sensing Ashley’s persistent stance earlier, Gina felt that missing this meeting might prompt Ashley from seeking future
encounters.
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11:32/ Mon, May 27
Chapter 250
Gina: [I don’t mind. I’ll be there.]
Gabriel: [Alright. I’ll come to pick you up ]
Gina: [No need. I’ll drive over myself.]
Meanwhile, Ashley intercepted Gabriel’s actions. “Can’t she drive herself? Just let her come on her own?”
Gabriel chose not to engage with Ashley’s remarks, offering no response.
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As Gina entered the private room at the restaurant, Ashley immediately sat up and adjusted her attire upon hearing the door. Without turning to acknowledge Gina, Gabriel stood and greeted her, “Gina.”
Looking at Ashley, who remained stoic in her seat, Gina extended a greeting, “Hello, Miss Jackson.”
Ashley turned toward Gina with a composed demeanor, offering a courteous smile as she nodded. “Hello, Miss Miller. Please, have a seat.”
Gabriel guided Gina to the chair beside him.
Ashley presented a box containing the brooch and pushed it toward Gina with a smile. “A gesture for our initial encounter.”
“Thank you.” Gina responded, her tone tinged with surprise as she opened it. “Jewelry from Quaria…”
Clearing her throat, Ashley remarked, “Indeed, jewelry from a prestigious brand. I trust it meets your taste?”
Initially planning to assure Gina she would appreciate it, Ashley refrained from being too direct in Gabriel’s presence, opting for a more refined approach.
“I find it quite charming. Thank you, Miss Jackson, Gina acknowledged.
Ashley responded with a slight nod
As the trio began their meal, Gabriel felt somewhat restrained in his conversation with Gina due to Ashley’s presence. Meanwhile, Ashley, maintaining her dignity, resolved not to initiate further conversation unless prompted by Gina.
Gina felt a tension in the atmosphere and glanced at her phone.
Max had reached out with a message.
Since their encounter at the hotel, Max hadn’t initiated contact until now.
Max : [I’ve got some news for you, and it might not be what you want to hear.]
Intrigued, Gina replied, [What kind of news? Go ahead, spill it.]
Max sent over a series of photos. One showed Gabriel and Ashley at the Quaria store, purchasing a brooch. Ashley had her arm around Gabriel’s, but he seemed uncomfortable with the gesture.
There were several snapshots of the two strolling side by side.
Max (It looks like Gabriel is a scoundrel. He’s acting all devoted to you on the one hand, yet behind the scenes, he’s playing the field. If I hadn’t stumbled upon this, you’d have been none the wiser.]
Though Max’s words were conveyed via text, Gina sensed a hint of admiration between the lines.
Cina: [That lady in the photo is his sister J