Chapter 329

Evelyn wanted to snap back, but Abigail swiftly selected a violet evening gown and handed it to her.

"You came here for a dress, not to argue with irrational women, Evelyn. Let's try this on..."

Abigail nudged Evelyn toward the dressing room before settling onto a plush chair and flipping through a fashion magazine.

The luxury boutique offered impeccable service. The opulent decor was matched only by the complimentary gourmet beverages served to patrons. Abigail sipped her latte, savoring the moment—if only the snobbish salesgirl and haughty Lillian Prescott weren't ruining the atmosphere.

The dressing room door soon swung open.

Abigail gasped.

The transformation was staggering.

Evelyn had always been naturally beautiful, but her usual wardrobe of simple sweaters and minimal makeup made her blend into the background like a university student. Now, draped in that exquisite gown, she radiated elegance.

The violet silk clung to her curves, its plunging back showcasing her toned shoulders. The rich fabric contrasted stunningly against her porcelain skin, her delicate features now accentuated by the gown's regal design.

Even Evelyn seemed startled by her reflection.

Fine feathers indeed made fine birds.

The salesclerk's jaw nearly dropped. No other customer had ever done the gown such justice—it looked tailor-made for her.

Lillian froze, envy twisting her features.

Then a mocking voice cut through the silence. "Well, isn't this a revelation? A peasant cleans up nicely in designer wear. Too bad the dress can't mask her vulgarity."

Evelyn turned.

Maxwell Lockwood's cousin, Miranda, stood smirking in the doorway. Behind her loomed a broad-shouldered girl with thick eyebrows, arms laden with shopping bags like a pack mule.

Evelyn's lips thinned. She despised Maxwell's relatives.

"Miss, do you usually permit such uncouth behavior in your establishment?" Abigail asked pointedly.

Miranda's temper flared. That woman had cost her Maxwell's attention earlier—now she'd pay.

"Who are you calling uncouth?" she spat.

Lillian watched gleefully. Whoever this newcomer was, she seemed determined to humiliate Evelyn publicly.

Ignoring Miranda, Evelyn strode to the counter and produced a sleek black card. "I'll take this."

"Wait!" Miranda barked. "I want that dress!"

The clerk hesitated. "Ma'am, this gown is reserved. Perhaps another style—"

"I don't care!" Miranda's eyes burned with spite. She'd take everything from this woman—especially since Maxwell clearly still pined for her.

Lillian nearly rolled her eyes. Couldn't the idiot see the unlimited credit card in Evelyn's hand?

Abigail moved to intervene, but Evelyn beat her to it.

"Did your parents neglect your upbringing, child?" Evelyn's voice dripped ice. "Throwing tantrums and spewing filth—perhaps you belong back in kindergarten."

Towering over Miranda in her heels, Evelyn's disdain was palpable.

Miranda's face purpled with rage. She shot a glare at her thick-browed shadow...

Unfazed, Evelyn completed her purchase and changed back into her clothes.

She never noticed the slip of paper stealthily tucked into her coat pocket.