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Just as the whispers began to die down, a group of elegantly dressed women approached them, their high heels clicking sharply against the marble floor. They were Florence's close friends: Stella, Chloe, and Monica.
Stella was dressed in a figure-hugging gold sequin gown that shimmered with every step she took. It had thin straps and a deep neckline, making her look flashy and expensive. She wore her hair in a tight high bun, and huge diamond earrings dangled from her ears, catching the light.
Chloe stood out in a daring red leather dress with long sleeves and a high slit. The material looked sharp and expensive, matching her cold and critical expression. She had sleek, straight hair falling over her shoulders and wore a thick diamond choker around her neck.
Monica wore a soft pink tulle dress that looked like a fluffy cloud, with intricate lace details and pearls sewn all over it. She looked sweet and delicate, but her eyes were sharp and mischievous as she fanned herself slowly.
"Florence! There you are!" Stella exclaimed, linking arms with her tightly. "We have reserved the best table for you right in front. Come, join us, everyone is waiting to see you."
They turned to lead the way, but as they walked, Chloe—tall and sharp-looking—glanced at Isabella's empty hands. She stopped suddenly, looking her up and down with a sneer.
"Wait a minute," she said loudly, drawing the attention of everyone nearby. "Where is your gift? Did you come to such a grand party empty-handed?"
Isabella froze, her cheeks flushing bright red. "I... I didn't know I was supposed to bring one, and I—"
"You didn't know?" Chloe laughed sarcastically, covering her mouth as if she had heard the funniest joke. "Oh my, really? Everyone brings a present for the celebrant. It is basic etiquette. Or is it that you simply couldn't afford one?"
Monica chimed in, giggling behind her fan. "Look at her, dressed up so beautifully like a princess in that green dress, but she didn't even bring a single box or a flower. How embarrassing."
"Maybe in the world she lives in, they don't give gifts," Stella added, her voice dripping with malice as her gold dress sparkled dangerously. "Or perhaps she was just hoping to come here to eat and drink for free without contributing anything?"
Isabella stood there frozen, feeling small under their gazes. She wanted to disappear, her hands clutching the folds of her emerald dress tightly. The humiliation burned in her chest, but she didn't know what to say or how to defend herself.
Florence watched the whole scene, a faint, almost unnoticeable smile playing on her lips, enjoying every second of Isabella's discomfort.
Isabella stood frozen, feeling the heat of shame rise up her neck. But just as the words pierced her ears, a memory flashed through her mind—she remembered what her father, Mr. Harrison, had told her earlier.
"Isabella, everything is already taken care of. Your gift is special and it has been sent ahead of time. You don't need to carry anything."
Taking a deep breath, she lifted her chin. The nervousness vanished, replaced by a calm, serene smile that confused everyone watching.
She looked directly at Chloe, then at Stella and Monica, and spoke in a clear, steady voice.
"Why would I come empty-handed? You seem to have jumped to conclusions," she said softly but confidently. "My gift wasn't brought in a box for everyone to see and compare. It was delivered directly to the host earlier today, personally handled by my father's assistant."
Florence stood there completely stunned, her eyes widening in genuine shock. She had genuinely believed Isabella had come with nothing, She never expected her to actually have a gift, let alone one delivered so formally by her father's assistant.
So she came prepared? Florence thought to herself, a flicker of irritation crossing her face before she masked it quickly.
She quickly regained her composure and shot a sharp, subtle glance towards Stella, Chloe, and Monica. It was a silent signal—the gift plan failed, move on to the next one.
Her friends caught the look immediately. They exchanged knowing glances, closing their mouths and straightening their backs. The mocking smiles faded, replaced by a cold, calculated look. They knew exactly what to do next.
"Well..." Stella cleared her throat, adjusting her gold straps, trying to sound unbothered. "If you say so. Let's not waste time standing here. The table is waiting."
Florence linked arms with Stella again, but this time, her grip felt tighter. She had to admit, Isabella had surprised her tonight—but this was only the beginning. She had other tricks up her sleeve, and it was time to execute them.
Suddenly, the bright hall lights dimmed down, leaving only the warm glow of the crystal chandeliers and spotlights illuminating the stage. The lively chatter and clinking of glasses faded into a hush, and soft, anticipatory music began to play in the background.
A host walked onto the stage, holding a microphone with a warm smile.
"Good evening, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen!" his voice echoed clearly through the speakers. "Welcome, one and all, to this magnificent night. We are gathered here to celebrate a very special occasion..."
As he spoke, fireworks suddenly sparkled beautifully from the ceiling, and the atmosphere became magical.
"Without further ado... the host continues her speech. ....let the celebration begin!"
With those words, the music swelled to a grand crescendo. The party had officially started. Guests raised their glasses, applause filled the air, and the night of glamour, secrets, and surprises truly began.
*****