My Second Marriage with the Mafia Kingpin novel Chapter 101

Chapter 101: Three, two, one

"And... we’re sisters!"

A brief moment of silence fell over their small group, the ladies darting their gazes between the two (Ashley and Isabella). There was nothing—physically—that made them resemble each other. If no one said it, no one would know.

"Really?" one of the ladies remarked. "Like, sister-sisters?

Isabella smiled brightly before a flicker of surprise crossed her face. "Yes—oh, is that Le Roux from the Imperatrix collection?" 𝓯𝓻𝒆𝙚𝒘𝓮𝙗𝓷𝒐𝓿𝙚𝒍.𝙘𝓸𝙢

"Huh?" The lady raised her brows, instinctively touching the earring dangling from her ear. "You recognized this?"

"Oh my gosh!" Isabella excitedly stepped closer, her eyes sparkling with admiration. "Of course! Who wouldn’t? They say the Imperatrix collection isn’t that great, but only those with a keen eye would know it’s actually one of their best."

As Isabella demonstrated her knowledge of the brand, the lady softened, smiling in satisfaction. She nodded, clearly pleased that someone shared her opinion.

"And this too..." Isabella’s eyes twinkled as she turned to another lady.

Just like that, she broke into the group, effortlessly pointing out subtle details about each of them. As the ladies began engaging with her, flattered by her observations, Isabella discreetly slid her gaze toward Ashley.

No one was speaking to Ashley anymore. They were all too absorbed in Isabella’s conversation. Now, Ashley simply stood there, watching them with an unreadable expression.

Heh, Isabella sneered inwardly. See? You don’t belong here.

To Isabella, that look on Ashley’s face was proof—proof of how easy it was to push her out of a place she had no right to stand in. That Ashley was shrinking back to where she belonged.

How dare she think she was relevant when everything was only because of Lucian? What did this dimwit even know?

Isabella looked away, a faint smirk tugging at her lips before she returned her attention to the ladies with a sweet smile.

But unlike what she thought, Ashley was watching... and taking notes. She almost clapped!

So, that’s how it’s done, huh? That’s another approach. Impressive!

She nodded subtly, appreciating the skill Isabella was unknowingly showcasing. More importantly, Isabella had just given her the perfect opportunity to excuse herself, just as she had originally planned.

Smiling, Ashley stepped forward. Even that simple movement was enough to halt the ladies’ chatter, snapping their attention back to her.

"Ladies, it was lovely speaking with all of you. I’m glad to have met you," she said gracefully.

"Madam De Luca, we’re the ones honored that you gave us your time."

"Yes! Madam, would it be alright if I sent you an invitation to our farm?"

"Though it’s a bit far, I assure you it’s worth visiting—especially the land..."

The ladies, who had just been discussing luxury brands, shifted their focus instantly. Now, they were eager to maintain connections with Ashley for both business and leisure.

And just as quickly, Isabella dimmed.

Frowning, Isabella caught something from the corner of her eye.

A server was approaching with a tray of drinks. The corners of her lips curled into a malicious smile.

"I’ll reconsider," Ashley nodded. "Anyway, I’ll see you around—"

She didn’t even finish her sentence when Isabella suddenly—out of nowhere—tripped as another guest lightly brushed against her side.

"Ah—" Isabella tried to regain her balance, and thanks to Ashley, she didn’t fall hard. However, in the process, the red wine in her hand spilled onto Ashley’s red dress.

For a second, everything stilled. Heads turned toward the brief commotion. Isabella’s eyes widened as she paled, staring at the wine dripping along the hem of Ashley’s dress.

She panicked. "Oh no! I’m sorry, I’m so sorry—I’ll wipe it away! Oh, goodness! How clumsy of me!"

As Isabella hurriedly tried to clean it—even though the wine barely showed against the red fabric—Ashley furrowed her brows.

This had happened too many times before. Deep down, she knew something was wrong.

This wasn’t how Isabella usually reacted. Now, she looked terrified as if she would be punished for this.

Whatever it was...

...I really never learn, huh?

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