Episode 96

Camille mused that he might be a devoted husband, patiently waiting while his wife shopped, admiring his quiet sophistication. Moments later, the fitting room door swung open, and Elizabeth emerged, transformed. Camille's jaw dropped as she approached her friend.

“Wow! You look absolutely stunning!”

Before Elizabeth could respond, a sweet voice chimed in, "Well, Elijah, what do you think of this?" Simultaneously, Sandra stepped from another fitting room, wearing an identical dress. Behind a nearby partition, Elijah stood revealed.

Seriously? The cocktails at Oasis Club must have been stronger than I thought. Elijah, a doting husband?

Elijah turned, his eyes meeting Elizabeth's. The dress hugged her figure, highlighting her graceful silhouette. The daring cutouts framed her delicate waist, and the hem brushed high on her legs, showcasing their sculpted elegance. But a vivid red scar marred her otherwise flawless skin.

Elijah's thoughts drifted to his grandmother's renowned ointment, recalling how it had nearly healed his cousin's deep sculpting injury in weeks. Yet, Elizabeth's scar remained stark, a testament to the wound's depth.

Elizabeth noticed his gaze and instinctively stepped aside, using a chair to conceal her leg. Her scar always stirred uneasy self-consciousness, especially around him, amplifying her insecurities and making her feel inadequate. More than anything, she longed to disappear, fearing his judgment of her imperfections.

As Elijah approached, Sandra tugged at his sleeve. "Elijah," she said.

He glanced at her with mild curiosity. "Yes?"

Sandra twirled playfully, her eyes sparkling. "How do I look in this?"

Though shorter than Elizabeth, Sandra's dress skimmed her knees, clinging lightly to her slender frame. It conveyed innocence rather than allure.

"You look great," Elijah replied with polite detachment.

Sandra's face lit up, her smile brimming with satisfaction. She sauntered over to Elizabeth, her tone light but laced with provocation.

"Ms. Elizabeth, what a surprise! I spilled coffee earlier, and Elijah insisted on bringing me here to find something new. Hope you don’t mind!"