Chapter 495

Ella almost applauded Maeve's deft handling of Mrs. Morris. Aeolian, however, was fuming. Her plan had backfired spectacularly. She couldn't admit to damaging "Wings of Love"—the Morris family would be furious.

"I was mistaken," Aeolian stammered, clutching her hands. A forced smile plastered itself on her face. "I forgot my contacts. A shoulder rub later?"

Jean, though perhaps skeptical, nodded. The Soar family's influence protected Aeolian from serious repercussions.

Maeve subtly silenced Ella's intervention. Maeve's aim wasn't accountability; it was public humiliation. Aeolian’s claim of contact lens-induced fashion blindness was a tacit admission of Maeve's implied critique.

The conversation circled back to "Wings of Love." Maeve, without directly agreeing, reaffirmed Ella's priority, effectively gifting the dress.

Ella stared, guilt flooding her. She’d pressured Maeve, yet Maeve remained steadfast. Ella, accustomed to the fickle affections of her family, was overwhelmed by Maeve's selfless act.

The party ended. Maeve, escaping the ballroom's stifling atmosphere, sought fresh air. Ella caught up.

"I'm sorry, Maeve," Ella confessed, "I pressured you. I just wanted to prove myself."

Maeve's reply was flat. "I know."

"Are you mad?" Ella asked, fiddling with her earring.

"Yes," Maeve said, instantly.

"Even so, you helped me," Ella countered, a wry smile playing on her lips. "Tough on the outside, soft on the inside?"

Maeve's tone remained even. "Letting go of the gown was worth the chance to change your fate. But that doesn't mean I'm not offended. Thank you for the invitation."

Ella’s disappointment was palpable. Their friendship, she sensed, was over. Maeve regretted it; they were compatible. But Maeve wouldn't tolerate being manipulated.

Outside, as Maeve enjoyed the cool air, a flamboyant man blocked her path.

"Ms. Reese," he announced, "you've been so kind to my cousin, yet she treats you like a stepping stone. It's heartbreaking."

Maeve frowned. "Who are you?"

"Jacob, Ella's cousin," he declared, offering a rose. Maeve felt nauseous. His over-the-top manner repelled her.

"No, thank you," she said coldly, crossing her arms.

Jacob, undeterred, blocked her exit. "Don't rush. Let me show you around."

His blatant attempts at seduction infuriated Maeve.

"Have you never seen a mirror?" she snapped. "Why would I respect you? Move!"

Jacob, accustomed to adoration, was strangely thrilled by her anger.

"Feisty!" he grinned, reaching for her. Maeve recoiled.

"Mr. Morris, please," a voice interrupted.

Zephyr, impeccably dressed, appeared. Jacob’s demeanor instantly changed.

"Ms. Reese is a friend," Zephyr stated, his smile cold. "Shouldn't you check with me first?"

Jacob mumbled an apology and fled.

Zephyr turned to Maeve. "Sorry, I meant to help, but I caused a misunderstanding."

Maeve shook her head. "No apology needed. Thank you."

Zephyr's distance was noticeable. Maeve felt a fresh wave of guilt. Her apology letter had been insufficient. She was about to apologize again when a voice called, "Zephyr!"