Chapter 340

In just three days, she would officially become his wife.

The entire city of Willowbrook - no, the entire world - would witness their extravagant wedding ceremony through live broadcast.

The thought made Victoria Lancaster's lips curve into a satisfied smile.

That evening, Victoria indulged in an extensive beauty routine. The next morning, she arrived at the prestigious bridal boutique with her head held high.

This designer brand was internationally renowned. She informed the staff about the custom gown Alexander Blackwood had commissioned. The masterpiece had arrived via private jet yesterday, valued at a staggering seven-figure sum.

Before meeting Alexander, Victoria could never have dreamed of wearing such an exquisite creation.

Now, not only was she the esteemed Miss Montgomery, but soon she would be the undisputed First Lady of the most powerful family in the country.

The anticipation made her giddy.

Having announced her plans beforehand, Victoria found the boutique swarmed with reporters eager for an exclusive.

"Miss Montgomery, how does it feel to be marrying Mr. Blackwood in two days?"

"Is it true you're trying on a million-dollar wedding gown today?"

Victoria beamed at the cameras. "Alexander personally selected this dress. Every single crystal is genuine."

"Why didn't Mr. Blackwood accompany you today?"

"You know how busy Alexander is," she replied sweetly. "Running a global empire like Blackwood Enterprises demands his full attention. I wouldn't trouble him with something as trivial as a dress fitting. A man's place is in the boardroom while a woman's is in the home."

The crowd murmured approvingly at her "understanding" nature. Victoria basked in their admiration before sweeping into the boutique with her assistant.

"Miss Montgomery, when you emerge in that dress, the paparazzi will go wild," her assistant, Claire, remarked.

Victoria's carefully cultivated gentle demeanor slipped as she smirked arrogantly. "Naturally. These commoners have never seen such luxury. They couldn't afford a single crystal on this dress even if they worked themselves to death!"

"Of course," Claire agreed dutifully.

Having worked with Victoria for months, Claire knew her true colors. The public saw a refined socialite, but behind closed doors, Victoria was petty, vindictive, and obsessed with status.

Only the exorbitant salary kept Claire from quitting.

As Victoria strutted into the boutique, the staff exchanged uneasy glances.

"Miss Lancaster... we weren't expecting you today?"

Victoria's smile vanished. "What nonsense is this? I'm here for my fitting, obviously."

"But—"

"No excuses. Where's my dress? I want to try it immediately."

At her command, the velvet curtains parted with a dramatic flourish.

Victoria and Claire gasped simultaneously as a breathtaking vision appeared.

Under the crystal chandeliers, the dazzling gown shimmered like liquid diamonds, hugging the wearer's exquisite figure.

Victoria's face contorted with rage. "Why is someone else wearing my dress? Are you all incompetent? That's my million-dollar gown! How dare you let some commoner touch it? Do you want to be unemployed?"

The staff exchanged panicked looks. "Miss Lancaster, you see—"

"And you!" Victoria shrieked at the woman. "Take that off immediately or—"

"Your dress?" came a cool, familiar voice.

Victoria froze.

Her blood ran cold as the woman turned slowly, revealing a face more beautiful than Victoria remembered.

"Vivian Prescott!"