Chapter 8
The car pulled up to Crystal Lounge with a stylish drift.[]
I threw open the door, bringing a gust of cold air as I stormed toward the lobby.]
Just as I reached the private room, I ran into a few of my closest friends who had stepped out.]
“Daphne! Finally! You’re here]
aria grabbed i
arm and lowered her voice to complain: “I have to ask, where did you meet this… special friend of yours? She’s really something… hard to put into words.“]
She was clearly still being considerate since she thought this was my “friend,” not wanting to be too harsh.[]
I’didn’t have time for lengthy explanations and simply said, “She’s not a friend. She’s an enemy.“]
My friends exchanged glances and immediately understood, their faces lighting up with anticipation for the drama.
“Damn! I knew something was off! A cuckoo trying to take over the nest!”
“Let’s go, Daphne! We’ve got your back today
I first went to speak with the restaurant manager. I
As a top–tier VIP here, the manager immediately approached respectfully when he saw my displeased expression.
“Miss Ashworth, about this situation…” He seemed troubled.[]
“Don’t worry. Whoever ordered it pays for it. I’m just here to watch the show.
The manager relaxed and immediately assured me that as long as I didn’t disturb other guests, I could do whatever I wanted.[]
When our group pushed open the private room door, the atmosphere inside was at its peak.
Celeste was surrounded by people, having opened all the gifts.]
The floor was littered with roughly torn gift box wrapping paper, some even bearing shoe prints.]
The limited edition mermaid necklace that my friend had spent a fortune to acquire was now hanging prominently around Celeste’s neck, complementing my ‘Moonlight Mermaid dress and adding some radiance to her otherwise plain face.]
She was holding her phone, tilting her head and pouting her lips, taking endless selfies of her face and the necklace. Archer sat beside her, his eyes so gentle they could melt water, watching her with overflowing indulgence and pride.[] My unsuspecting friends were all caught up in this “sweet” atmosphere, cheering along.
Meanwhile, Celeste’s real friends stood in the corner, watching this celebration that didn’t belong to them, their eyes mixing envy with unease.
Rage boiled up inside me…]
