Chapter 20

"Perhaps not. I have other matters to attend to. Let's meet another time," Miranda replied, smiling. She was on friendly terms with Calvin and didn't embarrass him by turning down his offer.

Calvin noticed the jewelry box she carried—a haute couture accessory. He concluded she wasn't making excuses. He agreed, but before he could speak further, Miranda walked past Hansel and left, not acknowledging him.

Calvin sensed the tension. Peeking at Hansel's expression, he awkwardly attempted to smooth things over. "Uh, Hans, Miranda probably didn't see you. Don't take it to heart."

Hansel's expression only darkened. Calvin cleared his throat, saying nothing more, but concluding Miranda was resolute this time.

"Sir, are you still getting an accessory?"

Hansel looked up, his gaze cold. "Of course. Why not? Get me the most expensive one in the store." He muttered, "Miranda may not care, but someone else will!"

The business banquet was held in a Nimbus Street mansion. Many guests were already present when Miranda arrived. Some recognized her and looked at her thoughtfully. Hansel had frequently brought her to such events, so she was known in these circles as Hansel's girlfriend—a woman who'd risen from humble beginnings. However, word of their breakup had spread. Her solitary presence at the banquet confirmed the rumors. Guests stared meaningfully. Had she lost everything? Six years of effort, apparently for naught. The gossip was irresistible.

Miranda ignored them and approached Winter, handing her the accessory.

"Mimi, why don't you stay? The food is excellent tonight."

"I'll pass. Go easy on the alcohol, and be careful getting home."

"Okay." Winter didn't press. She understood Miranda's humiliation. "You nag! I'll have Leo take you home."

Miranda hummed in agreement and left. Murmurs erupted.

"Did you see her? How dare she show her face? She's shameless!"

"She was with Hansel for six years. That means something, right?"

"Hilarious! Did you see her outfit? Our housekeeper dresses better."

"Everyone knows she was Hansel's servant. 'Housekeeper' is the perfect description."

"Ms. Sutton…" Leo Webb, Winter's assistant, glanced at Miranda. He found the comments offensive, but Miranda remained unfazed.

"Let's go," she said calmly. She'd anticipated this reaction after breaking up with Hansel.

"Please wait, Ms. Sutton. I'll get the car," Leo said.

"Sure." Miranda stood outside, looking at the setting sun. A gentle breeze blew. Then, a low, slightly slurred voice called, "Miranda?"

She turned. "What a coincidence."

Micah Lawson swirled the wine in his glass, a hint of surprise in his eyes. "Long time no see. Last time we met… your graduation, I think. It's a shame Hansel chased me off; I never got to give you my bouquet."

Miranda felt awkward. Micah and Hansel had both courted her, both wealthy and handsome but also extreme in their personalities.