ion for sharp, incisive reporting, leaned in closer. "An older

d sorrow. "Oh, it's far too embarrass

stepped in hastily, her fingers tightening around Alexandr's ar

spiring designer friend of mine managed to craft this piece for me on such short notice." She cleverly framed herself as

The truth is, the lining of that old dress... was made of extremely cheap synthetic fabric. I have ter

rritation on her delicate skin-a mark she had deliberately rubbed raw with a coars

not only outdated and unfashionable, but shoddily made enough to cause physical discomfort and i

een interest. This was undo

with fury for a split second before she forced it into a mask of helpless distress. "A rash? Oh my goodness, Alexandr, I had a

versible. The nearby guests exc

g smile. "Of course you didn't know, sis

knife. It cast Alexandr as magnanimous and gentle, while painting Clai

uld not let this stand. She needed a distraction, a way to sh

she would stage an accidental wine spill on Alexandr's eye-catching crimson gown. Though red wine would not leave an obvious color sta

ire subtly extended her foot, intending to trip

ad anticipated every bit of Claire's petty,

the second Claire's foot shot out, Alexandr t

urched forward violently. But Alexandr was no longe

ed headlong into

clusive silver gown from neckline to hem. A huge, dark crimson stain bloomed across her bod

swept through th

uined designer gown, then snapped her gaze up to

sk of pure shock and sincere conce

and absolute. Claire had fallen

t the stunned crowd. A heavy silence fell over the venue, every pair of eyes f

mph, cold and subtle, before seamlessly softening her