Before moving into the new villa, it needed a deep clean, so Winifred took the twins to a hotel for the time being. She had no idea that Quentin Adams’s imagination had spiraled entirely out of orbit regarding her.
Once the kids were bathed and tucked into bed, Celeste pulled Winifred onto the sofa, practically vibrating with excitement as she shared the intel she’d gathered from behind enemy lines.
"I was eavesdropping on that trash Holden and that two-faced Iris," Celeste whispered. "Iris invited Quentin to collaborate with Mrs. Sutton. She promised him a massive payout and a golden ticket into high society. Quentin actually agreed."
Celeste paused for dramatic effect. "And Iris asked him when your botanical beauty cream would be back in stock. She claimed she’s going to endorse it for free, posting about its incredible health benefits on social media. She told Quentin to get ready to launch a massive company and welcome a tidal wave of wealth."
"As for Holden," Celeste added, "he’s rushing Quentin to produce more of that soothing spray. He said it works wonders and promised to promote it among his elite sports circles."
Winifred listened intently, her mind working with cool precision.
Her golden opportunity had finally arrived.
Iris wanted to be the face of her holistic skincare line for free? Perfect. She wanted to bring in a tidal wave of wealth? Even better.
But the one reaping the benefits wouldn't be Quentin. Holden, Iris, and Quentin—these three were about to become her ultimate stepping stones.
Without hesitating, Winifred texted Leland to see if he was available to sign their contract the next day.
Leland replied with an invitation to his office.
Winifred felt a strange twinge in her chest. The night of his public confession, she had essentially poured cold water all over him. It seemed she hadn't just scared him off; she had forced a wedge of professional distance between them.
She had expected him to invite her to the Lockwood Mansion. They were all so familiar with each other; it would have been a warm, casual signing. But Leland was keeping it strictly business.
He was drawing a line.
She understood. She could only accept it. Right now, there was no better path forward, and honestly... she still needed his backing.
The next morning, she woke up early. She showered, styled her hair, and applied her makeup with meticulous care.
Just then, the revolving glass doors spun, admitting a group of people. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught a flash of crimson amidst a sea of black suits.
She turned her head—and froze.
The world really was far too small.
Walking through the doors were four familiar figures: Holden, Iris, Kian, and Preston.
The three men, all towering and athletic, were dressed in sharp black, with Holden sporting a dark cap. Iris was squeezed into a tight red slip dress that showcased her cleavage and tiny waist, holding a diamond clutch strategically over her flat stomach to draw the eye downward.
The four of them carried themselves with arrogant superiority, not sparing a glance for anyone as they made a beeline for the elevators.
Oddly enough, the four receptionists at the desk didn't even blink at the arrival of the famous Reality Show Goddess.

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