An ordinary catch-up session between best friends was suddenly thrown off course.

With a touch of resignation, Ophelia pressed her fingertips to her temples. "Bri, you just witnessed quite the spectacle." Vincent insisted he'd been played. Yet, if he hadn't gotten involved with that woman, how could he have been played at all?

Though she once harbored feelings for Vincent, they were now fading. Cutting her losses was clearly the smartest move.

"It's okay." Brittany knew Ophelia was hurting, even if she didn't show it. After all, Ophelia had invested genuine emotions. And because of that woman, she'd become the butt of Craneville's jokes!

"Forget it, just come shopping with me." Ophelia didn't want to dwell on it any longer and pulled Brittany toward their favorite boutiques.

The two chatted and laughed, completely in sync.

While Ophelia headed to the changing room, Brittany settled herself in the VIP lounge with a magazine she'd grabbed at random, only to flip it open to a photo of the Princess of Craneville. With her delicate beauty and the grace of a budding rose, every smile and frown spoke of elegance.

The Craneville royalty was one of the few remaining with real power. Among them, this princess held a special place, cherished by all.

Renowned for her dedication to charity and philanthropy, she epitomized the values the royal family needed to uphold, serving as an exemplary figure to capture the public's adoration.

A sales associate brought over afternoon tea and the latest issue of the magazine.

Ophelia's shopping style was all or nothing. She practically cleared the store's inventory.

Brittany understood Ophelia's way and had braced herself for it.

After finishing up his work for the afternoon, Isaac called her. "Where are you?"

"Out with Ophelia, shopping." Brittany gave him the address.

"I'll be there." Isaac hung up, got into his car, and set off to pick Brittany up.

The massive LED screen in the square was airing a documentary on Princess Ivy.

Isaac had no interest in it and parked his car, stepping out toward the elevator. Just as he reached the elevator, a figure burst out, crashing straight into his arms. "Whoa..."

Isaac staggered back a step. "I'm so sorry."

Ivy had gone shopping but got separated from her maid and found herself being followed, which caused her to flee in panic.

Looking up, she realized the man she'd run into was someone she'd seen at a wedding banquet.

Stepping back from Isaac's embrace, her pretty face flushed with apology. "Sir, are you alright?"

Isaac waved it off. "I'm fine."

He was in a hurry to meet Brittany and brushed past Ivy, striding away.

Ivy watched his retreating figure, feeling an unfamiliar sense of doubt. Throughout her life, she'd been adored.

Adored for her beauty. For her status.

Being ignored was a first for her.

The maid caught up with Ivy, relieved to replace her unharmed. "Princess, are you okay?"

Ivy shook her head; she was more than okay.

"Princess, the Lynette family has found their daughter, and they're hosting a welcoming party. Her Majesty suggests you represent the royal family and offer congratulations." Ivy was scornful. "The Lynette family is fond of a bastard child?"

"Apparently, she's the daughter of Yuri's first love. He's very fond of her, and on their first meeting, he gifted her a present worth billions."

Money was no object to Ivy, so she was indifferent.

"Check the mall's security footage for me later. I need to replace someone." She couldn't wait to get to know the man she'd bumped into. "Understood."

...

Isaac arrived at the store.

Ophelia was still trying on clothes.

Seeing him, Brittany poured a cup of coffee. "That was quick."

"I wanted to see you."

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