“Over sixty grand? No way! It’s just a simple ring—I thought it cost a few hundred at most.”
“Oh, please. This is a brand-new release; knockoffs haven’t even hit the market yet. Be honest—what handsome guy finally swept you off your feet?” Nydia reached over, tipping Yvonne’s chin up with a mischievous glint in her eyes.
Yvonne had already rehearsed what to say, but the price still caught her off guard.
“It’s just… well, an old friend turned boyfriend.” She tried to sound composed, but a faint blush crept across her usually calm, elegant face.
She’d known Marico for about two years now—ever since she’d started working at the company.
“Wow! Got a photo? Come on, let me see!” Nydia perked up, eyes shining with curiosity.
Yvonne grew shy, pulling her hand away and covering the ring with her right palm. “We only just started dating. No photos yet.”
“Is he hotter than Mr. Powell?” Nydia teased, waggling her brows.
Yvonne nodded, a dreamy little smile forming. “He’s honestly the most handsome man I’ve ever met.”
Marico had that rare combination of looks and presence—absolutely striking. The kind of man who could make even someone as traditional as her act recklessly after a drink.
“Finally! You’re in a relationship at last. Bring him out sometime, let us meet him—maybe grab dinner, let us check him out for you.” Nydia snatched her hand again, gently tracing her fingers over the ring.
“Maybe when we both have some free time. He’s really busy,” Yvonne replied, laughing at Nydia’s antics and letting her play with her hand.
“It’s gorgeous. And judging by this ring, your boyfriend’s not hurting for cash, huh? This is a matching couple’s set, you know—must’ve cost him a small fortune.”
“Couple’s set?” Yvonne echoed, startled all over again.
Two rings, together, were worth more than her entire year’s salary.
“Aw, come on, let’s gossip a little longer! So, you two just got together, huh? Any kissing yet?” Nydia cupped her cheeks, her tone getting even cheekier.
Yvonne’s face turned scarlet as she ducked her head, pretending to be busy.
“That shy look totally gives you away. You guys definitely kissed, didn’t you? Was it the tongue kind?” Nydia cackled, putting on an exaggerated, creepy face.
Mortified, Yvonne clapped a hand over her mouth. “Will you just shut up already? Please!”
“So shy, Yvonne! How’s your boyfriend supposed to handle you?” Nydia teased, dodging as Yvonne’s tiny fists came swinging her way, then dashed off before she could retaliate.
“Hey, Yvonne! We’ve got the team dinner tonight—bring your boyfriend, will you? Let the pros check him out, see if he’s up to scratch!” Nydia called out, laughing uproariously.
And everyone knew exactly what ‘up to scratch’ really meant.

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