**My Heart Waited Too Long and Choosing Freedom 23**
Hannah’s words tumbled out, shrouded in vagueness and uncertainty. The sympathy glimmering in her eyes only served to cast a shadow over the already fragile bond between Amelia and Oliver. It felt as if she had painted a picture where Amelia was so desperate for money that she had begun to engage in dubious dealings with her clients, a notion that was both absurd and infuriating.
Ethan’s face contorted into a mask of anger, his expression darkening further with each passing moment. It was clear he had taken Hannah’s insinuation to heart. When he turned his gaze towards Amelia, the fury in his eyes was palpable. “Amelia, do you really have to provoke me like this? If you’re in need of cash, just say so. Why would you stoop to such low levels?” His voice was a blend of accusation and disbelief, as if he couldn’t fathom why she would ever consider compromising her integrity.
Amelia felt a surge of annoyance bubbling within her, and despite the gravity of the situation, she couldn’t help but let out a laugh, sharp and biting. The lightness she had felt moments before evaporated, leaving behind a sense of betrayal and irritation.
With a frosty glare, she addressed them both. “Don’t you dare twist your filthy, narrow-minded perspective into a slanderous narrative about my perfectly legitimate business interactions with my client.” Her voice was steady, but the anger simmered just beneath the surface.
“The man who just left is Mr. Oliver Fraser, a talented ink painter from Cindara. Our conversation revolved solely around creating a custom gown for his wife. Ethan, if you doubt me, feel free to chase after him and inquire yourself.” Her challenge hung in the air, heavy with defiance.
Ethan’s expression faltered, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his features. For a brief moment, he was at a loss for words, caught off guard by Amelia’s unyielding honesty.
“Amelia, I was just worried. I didn’t want you to…” His voice trailed off, the realization dawning on him that he sounded irrational, his concern morphing into a foolish accusation.
The atmosphere in the room thickened, a palpable tension enveloping them.
Just then, Hannah stepped forward, her demeanor softening as she handed Amelia two shopping bags, a gentle smile gracing her lips. “Ms. Harlow, I’m truly sorry.” Her tone was sincere, laced with regret. “I was just anxious about Isla’s allergy, and I may have overreacted. Please don’t take it personally.”
Amelia’s eyes narrowed as she glanced at the bags, the luxury brand logos glaring back at her. “These clothes are all things Ethan bought me yesterday. There are far too many styles for me to wear, so I thought I’d congratulate you on your studio’s opening with a small gift.”
“Thank you, but I’ll pass,” Amelia replied coolly, her voice devoid of warmth. “I don’t have the habit of wearing someone else’s clothes.”
Hannah’s expression fell, hurt evident in her eyes. “Ms. Harlow, I understand these clothes might not be the most expensive, and perhaps they don’t align with your taste… but it’s the thought that counts.”
Ethan’s brow furrowed, frustration bubbling to the surface.
“Amelia!” he exclaimed, his voice rising instinctively. “Hannah means well. Why do you have to be so confrontational?”
Amelia let out a laugh that held no humor. “You two are quite the pair,” she said, her eyes sweeping over them mockingly. “Hannah, you buy clothes with my husband’s credit card and then try to present them to me as a generous gift. Ethan, you claim to be here to check on me, yet you bring another woman along. How amusing.”

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