Chapter 37

"Excuse me? Do you even know who you're talking to? I'm Trevon's aunt-in-law!" Lauren was taken aback by Selina's tone and felt disrespected.

"Actually, you're his former aunt-in-law," Selina replied. "I checked with Trevon, and he told me you two aren't close. So, you might want to stop using the 'family' title. And another thing, you should really teach your daughter some manners. She's nothing but Trevon's cousin, yet she parades around like she's the lady of the Brady family. Has she even looked in the mirror to see if she fits the part?" Selina laid out the facts calmly. She'd spoken with Trevon afterward, and he'd confirmed her assessment. Facing these women, Selina felt no intimidation.

"Did Trevon really say that?" Lauren was shocked. Her family had been cultivating a relationship with Trevon, believing his position as head of the Brady family would guarantee their continued favor. They were content to reap the benefits of his influence. The Hudsons held some standing in town, but who would refuse additional wealth? What truly struck Lauren was Selina's blunt honesty, her utter disregard for Lauren's pride.

"Don't even try to create problems between Trevon and me!" Madelyn interjected. "He's practically family. We used to play pretend as children; I always said I'd marry him. I grew up with him. I should be his wife, not your Madelyn." Madelyn was weary of gossip about her strained relationship with Trevon, especially from Selina, whom she considered to be only superficially attractive. She didn't believe Selina deserved Trevon.

"Ignore them, Selina," Lydia said. "Let's just get this necklace and go." Lydia had encountered her share of shameless individuals. Given the drama surrounding Trevon's family, she felt the quickest solution was to purchase the necklace and leave. There was no point wasting time on such people when a shopping spree awaited.

Suddenly, Madelyn exclaimed, "No way you're getting that necklace. I've had it on hold."

"What?" The saleswoman, excited about the sale, froze.

Lydia, raising an eyebrow, retorted, "Then why is it still on display if you've already claimed it? Cut the bull."

Madelyn retorted, "What's wrong with that? The store manager's a friend of mine. She gave me a heads-up about this Angel and Cartier necklace. Mom and I came to pick it up, right, Mom?"

"Uh... yeah, that's right!" Lauren quickly agreed. They wouldn't let Selina win, especially after the earlier humiliation. They were determined to secure the necklace.

Lydia's forehead throbbed. She was about to explode when Selina stopped her. Seeing Selina's sly grin, Lydia controlled herself, realizing Selina had a plan. She would simply watch the unfolding spectacle.

Selina calmly said, "Alright then, let's have the store manager clarify things."

"Sure thing," Madelyn said, pulling out her phone. Shannon Wells, the Cartier manager, soon appeared. Madelyn seized the opportunity, grabbing Shannon's hand and saying, "Tell them I reserved the Angel-designed necklace before even entering the store." She winked exaggeratedly.

Shannon, an old friend, understood she couldn't contradict Madelyn. With a sheepish smile, she said, "My bad. It slipped my mind to remove the necklace."

The saleswoman, concerned, said, "Ms. Wells, this lady wishes to purchase it as well."

"I'm sorry, miss," Shannon said, smiling professionally. "I overlooked removing the necklace, but Madelyn did call dibs on it first. Perhaps you'd like to see other pieces? You're stunning, and I'm sure we can find something equally beautiful."

Selina calmly produced Trevon's black card. "I'll take this one. But feel free to continue blocking me if you're looking for a fight with Insight Group."

Shannon's eyes widened at the Insight Group logo. Insight Group? The Brady family's Insight Group? she thought. Looking at Madelyn, confused, she wondered, Isn't the Brady family connected to the Hudsons? Why is Madelyn antagonizing someone associated with the Bradys?

Madelyn was furious. "So, you're flaunting Trevon's card. No surprise you can act big here, you gold digger! Think spending his money is something to be proud of? You're after his wallet, aren't you?"

Selina responded coolly, "Trevon and I are married, and he gave me this card because he wants to. He supports me, and I'm not ashamed. Proud? Absolutely. I have a husband who spoils me. And you? I'm pretty sure those shopping bags are filled with your parents' money. Fifteen million is quite a sum, isn't it?"

Chapter 37 continued… Madelyn was enraged, incredulous that a woman would openly boast about living off her husband. Why? she wondered. Has Trevon lost his mind? He's met countless gold diggers. Why Selina? Keeping her as a lover is one thing, but marrying her and bringing her to the Brady manor? He's serious. But why her?

Lauren was astonished by Trevon's trust in Selina, evidenced by the unlimited black card. After their humiliating defeat, she and Madelyn left the Brady manor, Lauren determined to uncover Selina's true identity.