Marina had originally planned to wait for Jonathan and stroll confidently through the VIP entrance. Jonathan didn't have an invitation, but with his name and looks, nobody would ever dare stop him.
But as the evening edged closer and Jonathan still hadn't shown up, she had no choice but to shepherd Olive and Lily through the staff entrance instead.
Once inside, Marina glanced around, scanning the room for any sign of Niamh. But there was nothing.
"That Niamh must be here delivering food or something. There's no way that invitation was actually hers," Olive scoffed.
"Exactly," Lily chimed in. "She didn't even finish college! Why would FY invite her to their big celebration?"
Their words eased Marina's nerves a little. Her friends had a point—FY was one of the world's top luxury brands, and tonight's gala was a celebration of their Grand Piano Collection, launched four years ago. The line had rocketed to fame with its patented craftsmanship, distinctive artistry, and creative spark, quickly becoming a crown jewel among high-end jewelry. Four consecutive years as the number one seller, loved by both critics and customers alike—FY had every reason to celebrate.
"I wonder if we'll get to meet the genius behind the Grand Piano Collection tonight…" Marina's eyes sparkled with anticipation.
"I heard that designer is super mysterious. No one even knows if it's a man or a woman," said Olive.
"Marina, you work for FY now! Don't you know anything?" Lily pressed.
Marina shook her head, clearly disappointed. "All I know is the designer signs as BYC. That's it. Even my boss hasn't met them."
Meanwhile, in a private room upstairs, Niamh sat across from Peter.
Peter was one of FY's founders, and now its executive director.
"It's been three years," Peter said, handing her a mug of coffee. "You look even more beautiful than before."
Niamh knew he was just being polite.
Three years of marriage spent tied to the kitchen, her days revolving around chores, never a moment for herself, never time to dress up. How could a woman like that become more beautiful? Life had only worn her down.
Worst of all, her husband didn't love her.
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