Chapter 159

Paisley finished her snack, sticking to her no-waste policy. Stillie flagged a waiter, who presented a wine bottle with theatrical flourish. The men gasped. "Cloud Crest Reserve?" one exclaimed. "A bottle costs more than we earn in years!"

Paisley rolled her eyes. The other parents, however, were ecstatic. "Who knew we'd taste such wine at a kindergarten party?" Parent A gushed. "Cloud Crest Reserve! I'm so lucky!" Parent B added.

Vivian beamed, her vanity sated. "Only I could get this," she purred, subtly boasting about her husband's position. Isabella started to elaborate, but Vivian smoothly cut her off, maintaining her humble facade. She poured tiny servings, stingy even for such a pricey wine. "Please try," she offered, her modesty dripping with subtle arrogance. "We often have it at home, thanks to my… husband."

Isabella tried to flatter Vivian, asking about her absent husband, Mr. Morgan. Vivian smiled, "He's on his way." The other mothers openly envied her, knowing Nate was handsome and devoted.

Paisley, presented with a glass, declined. "I don't drink," she said. Cloud Crest Reserve was hardly the best wine—not compared to her own limited-release vintages.

Kevin, surprised, stared at her untouched glass. Paisley pushed it towards him. "You can have it." He grinned, draining it instantly. Isabella glared at Paisley, who felt a baffling hostility. Vivian watched with disdain. "She doesn't know how lucky she is," she muttered. "A chance like this… never again."

The children scattered to play. Feeling awkward, Paisley headed for the restroom, nearly colliding with Max Godard. Surrounded by a group, he paused, seeming to recognize her. A restaurant manager smoothly offered a private room, but Max, his leg pain gone, waved him off, "This room's fine."