Chapter 50: Clash of Gods

"Such a coincidence," Vanessa said with a pretentious air, though inwardly thrilled. "Ms. Gatlin, why don't we just let it go? This necklace is stunning, and Mr. Carter has shown his sincerity."

Dethroning Mia and sending her home empty-handed would be immensely satisfying. It wasn't about the necklace anymore; it was about pride and reputation. If Vanessa took it, Mia would lose face completely—no amount of compensation could make up for that.

As Vanessa finished speaking, Mia stood, smiling. "Since the brand has made its choice, I accept the loss. There's nothing more to say." She looked intently at Vanessa. "Madam, you are very skilled, but your eyesight is not very good."

Vanessa smiled softly. "When one gets old, many organs stop functioning properly."

Mia smiled, ignored Vanessa, and turned to leave.

"Wait," Maggie called, reaching out to stop her. "Wait for me. I'll make a call."

The elderly woman watched Maggie closely, curious.

Mia leaned in, whispering, "Are you going to fight for me? That woman is probably from a prestigious family—not easy to deal with."

"I know," Maggie replied. Mia was right. The brand's VIP status hinged largely on spending; Mia's extravagant lifestyle made her a top-tier member. However, the brand valued status as much as purchasing power. Prestigious families with long histories passed down their consumption to these brands; generations of loyal customers held higher status than Mia. The Gatlins' disadvantage was their lack of heritage. Even spending their entire fortune wouldn't make them as valuable as a family with generational inheritance.

Maggie couldn't guess who she could call. Despite her recent enviable life, the Camerons lacked the influence to resolve this. Mia's spending with the brand was less than that of an average, washed-up celebrity.

Vanessa watched, eager to see Maggie's attempt. She's just bluffing! Vanessa thought.

"I don't know him," Maggie said calmly, in response to an unspoken question.

Vanessa laughed mockingly. "In that case, why the charade? You're giving your friend false hope. Won't it be even more disappointing when she realizes it's all for nothing?"

Maggie's lips curved into a small smile. "The same goes for you. Be careful not to end up with nothing."

Vanessa sneered, irritated. "Well, I'd like to see what you can do."

Maggie said nothing more, entering a guest room to make an international call. "Hi, Blaire. It's me"

Vanessa watched, convinced Maggie was bluffing. She anticipated Mia and Maggie's humiliation.

"Mr. Mason," Vanessa said gently, appearing generous and proper. "I know this necklace is Mr. Carter's personal item, but I truly like it. May I have the honor of trying it on?"

"Of course," the manager replied. He asked Vanessa and the elderly woman to sit, carefully removing the necklace with black gloves and placing it on Vanessa.

Looking in the mirror, Vanessa loved it. She studied design and recognized the exquisite craftsmanship. More importantly, the necklace symbolized her break from the past—no longer the Cinderella working multiple jobs. She had surpassed Mia, and it was all hers. This felt like a fresh start, a new beginning.

She turned to the elderly woman, her voice cautious and hopeful. "Grandma, how do I look? Is it beautiful?"

The woman patted her hand reassuringly. "Of course, it's beautiful. You're young and pretty; anything you wear looks good."

A genuine smile spread across Vanessa's face. Tears welled in her eyes. "Grandma" she choked out.

The elderly woman chuckled. "You're my granddaughter. Of course, I'll be kind to you. Vanessa, you've been through a lot these years." Vanessa's smile faded; she glanced involuntarily at Maggie.

Meanwhile, in the guest room:

"Maggie, there's no problem, of course. Don't worry. But would you consider collaborating with us again? I truly admire your designs…"

"I'll seriously consider it, but my heart isn't in it right now. I hope you understand," Maggie replied softly.

Returning to the hall, Maggie saw Vanessa admiring the necklace. Mia leaned against a wall, waiting with a bored but serious expression.

"Maggie, are you done with your call? Do you think this necklace looks good on me?" Vanessa asked, sounding boastful.

Maggie smiled. "The necklace is beautiful, but it doesn't suit you."

It was true. The necklace was bold and trendy, better suited to Mia's unique, confident style. Vanessa, perhaps due to her upbringing, possessed a subtle shyness and pettiness. Her limited fashion exposure meant her style wasn't remarkable; she was better suited to simple, delicate pieces that highlighted her reserved elegance.

The smile vanished from Vanessa's face. "I knew it," she said coldly. "You can't stand to see me succeed. Maggie, you claim to be my friend, but you've never truly respected me. You're only friends with me because you believe I can't measure up to you. Being around me just boosts your image!"

Before she could finish, Mia interrupted with a disdainful laugh. "Idiot."

"You!" Vanessa glared at Mia, surprised by her audacity now that she had apparent support.

The manager wiped his brow, feeling caught in a clash of titans. He apologized to the elderly woman and Vanessa. "Madam, I sincerely apologize. Mr. Carter believes this necklace might be more suitable for Ms. Gatlin."