Chapter 15

Paisley finished her morning at the studio, then raced to meet Emery for lunch. Her phone buzzed—a lunch invite. Checking the time, she left the rest to Lucy and sped to Harrowfell’s exclusive shopping mall.

Emery’s boutique was buzzing. Paisley texted, wanting to avoid interrupting. Emery replied instantly: "Babe, VIP client. Lounge. Oh, and your gown's ready! It's in the main area."

Paisley smiled. Emery had made countless gowns for her, each more stunning than the last. Emery’s boutique was a gallery of exquisite creations. Paisley’s gown, a masterpiece of understated elegance, stood on a mannequin, its silk shimmering.

A mother and daughter stood before it. "My daughter loves this gown," the mother declared, her voice laced with possessive pride. "I'll buy it, regardless of the cost."

Paisley’s pulse quickened. It was Christina. A subtle smile played on her lips.

"Ma'am, this gown is a custom creation for another client," the receptionist explained calmly, though her eyes flickered with weariness. "Perhaps you'd like to see our ready-to-wear collection?"

Christina scoffed. "Do you know who my daughter is? These gowns won't do."

The receptionist, unfazed, offered a designer appointment. Brittany, her daughter, spoke: "Mom, I want this one."

Christina, seeing her daughter's determination, agreed. "We'll take it. Name your price."

"I'm afraid this gown is not for sale," the receptionist replied politely.

Christina, irritated, leaned forward. "Who does it belong to? I'll pay double!"

A laugh escaped Paisley. "I never thought I'd see the day my biological mother would..."

Christina cut her off, impatient. "Hurry up! We’ll take it today. Name your price!"

Christina's boldness was new. With Brittany’s upcoming film and the Vanderbilt Group’s shadow looming large, Christina felt invincible.

The receptionist hesitated, then a calm voice cut through the air. "No need to contact anyone. I'm right here."