Chapter 16

"Pah!" A sharp slap echoed.

Grace had no time to react to the sudden blow. Only when a burning sensation flared on her face did she realize what had happened.

"You must be that vamp!" the other woman spat hatefully. "I never expected you to ask Brian to bring you here for dinner. You're just a third-rate celebrity. Do you really think you'll secure his girlfriend position? Let me tell you, you'll be dumped before long!"

Grace looked up, recognizing her assailant. It was Emily, a former second-tier actress who'd risen to fame after becoming involved with Brian. Some had questioned whether Emily would be Brian's last girlfriend, as she'd been his longest-lasting partner. Ironically, she'd ended up just another ex.

"You've mistaken me for someone else!" Grace said.

"Mistaken? You came here with Brian tonight, didn't you?" Emily glared, her jealousy evident. She felt superior, considering Grace's clothes "incomparably shabby." "How long do you think you can last with him? If he dumped me today, he could dump you tomorrow!"

Grace looked at her coldly. "Whether he wants you or not is none of my business, but our relationship isn't what you think. Apologize."

She'd endured Jason's abuse, and now Brian's. This slap, however, was the last straw. Even at her lowest point, even after prison had worn her down, she wouldn't be treated like this. If she were her former self…

"Apologize? To a shameless vamp who sleeps with other people's boyfriends? Dream on! Don't think Brian's yours. He won't touch you. You're replaceable!" Emily sneered jealously.

Gone was the gentle, quiet woman from television and news reports; in her place stood a shrew, unleashing a torrent of insults.

Nearby patrons, entering and exiting the restroom, stopped to watch. Some recognized Emily. However, the restaurant's clientele were discerning; no one filmed the altercation.

"You're not going to apologize?" Grace asked.

"Do I need to repeat myself? How can I apologize to someone like you, you—"

Before Emily could finish, Grace slapped her across the face.

"Pah!" The sharp sound rang out again.