Chapter 74

“Who says we can’t afford something? I can…” Lina was about to impulsively buy an outfit to vent her anger and stop the staff’s condescending treatment.

Grace intervened, saying to the senior staff, “Can’t we just look around?”

“You two are in a store far beyond your means. You might be here to cause trouble, and it’s my job to protect the other guests,” the supervisor said, feigning reasonableness.

Grace retorted, “But you have no evidence against us. You’re clearly discriminating. And what you just said?” She held up her phone. “I recorded it. This will be evidence for the mall management.”

The supervisor’s face flushed. He hadn’t expected to be recorded.

“Grace, that’s enough,” Zoe scolded. “You’re a street cleaner. Why are you here? Missing your old rags?” she sneered. “If you really want these clothes, I’ll pity you and buy something.”

“Why? Can’t a sanitation worker browse and shop? Or does the Stevens family believe sanitation workers are inferior? If the public knew the Stevens family felt this way…” Grace stated calmly, more as an observation than a threat. Zoe’s behavior reflected on her family.

Zoe sputtered but didn’t refute Grace—likely because she knew Grace was right. She remained silent, fearing the fallout on social media if word of her comment leaked. The damage to her and her family would be immense.

Lily, who had been quiet, spoke. “Sanitation workers can buy clothes here, but like any store, those not purchasing shouldn't loiter. It impedes business. If you aren’t buying, don’t interfere.”

Lily believed she’d won, seeing the store manager perk up at the mention of loitering.

But Grace wasn't finished. She pointed to a dress with a $4 million price tag. It was a one-of-a-kind couture gown by a world-renowned designer. “Didn’t Miss Stevens say she’d buy me a dress? Let’s get this one.”

Zoe nearly choked. She hadn't meant her earlier offer seriously.

“Miss Stevens, you won’t go back on your word, will you?” Lina asked, moving closer to Grace.

Zoe’s face reddened further.

Lily sneered, “It’s not that Zoe can’t afford it. Buying this for a murderer is pointless.”

Grace paled. Lina stepped in front of her. “Who are you calling a murderer?” she snarled.

“Does she deny killing my sister?” Lily challenged Grace.

Grace’s lips tightened. The car accident flashed in her mind. She might have died too if she’d been a moment slower.

“I didn’t,” she said, meeting Lily’s gaze.

“Liar!” Lily scoffed. “The verdict is in. You talked about evidence; all evidence pointed to you.”

Grace’s eyes welled. It was true. Despite being framed, no one believed her except Lina.

“Lina, let’s go,” Grace said, grabbing her friend and turning to leave the store. She collided with Sean, who was entering.