Ruby was deeply unsettled, though she understood perfectly well that this whole spectacle was nothing short of a calculated attempt to destroy her reputation.
The wife of the wealthiest man in Quinborough caught wearing knockoffs—there could be no greater scandal in high society.
Meanwhile, Gennifer and Renee purposely dragged out their night, not returning home until the first hints of dawn.
They even stopped for a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, but as soon as they stepped out of the car, a crowd of reporters armed with microphones rushed to surround them.
“Miss Gennifer, have you seen today’s trending news? What’s your opinion on your sister Ruby wearing a fake C Collective gown at the celebration last night?”
“Miss Gennifer, your sister Ruby wore counterfeit fashion to steal the spotlight from you, the guest of honor. Do you have anything you’d like to say to her?”
The questions came fast and sharp, designed to spark conflict and stir up headlines.
Pressed in by the throng, Gennifer put on a troubled expression and tried to keep things civil: “Ladies and gentlemen, please, let’s not block the sidewalk unnecessarily.”
Though the streets were still quiet at this early hour, more people had begun to appear, drawn by the commotion.
Not far away, someone slipped into the crowd, phone held high and camera aimed at Gennifer—streaming it all live. The word “LIVE” glared across the screen.
Jostled by the crowd, Gennifer nearly lost her balance. Her gaze lingered for the briefest moment on the small figure with the phone before she composed herself.
She offered an apologetic, gracious smile. “I understand my sister’s intentions, but I don’t think her actions are appropriate. As Cassian’s wife, every move she makes reflects on Veyne & Co. As her sister, I can be forgiving, but as a member of the company, I have to say I’m disappointed.”
She gave a sigh, playing the part of the sympathetic sibling, while the reporters snapped away, eager to capture every fleeting expression.
Meanwhile, the live viewership online had already surged past a hundred thousand—an astonishing number for this hour of the morning.
“Cassian should really find a new wife—Ruby’s a disaster!”
“Gennifer is gorgeous! And so kind. Honestly, why hasn’t Cassian divorced Ruby yet? He should pay more attention to our Gennifer!”
The comments flew by in a blur, dividing into two camps—one roasting Ruby, the other singing Gennifer’s praises.
This spectacle of vanity and scheming only elevated Gennifer further in the public eye.
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