Crystal’s eyes flickered, and she said nothing more. If her brother managed to win over Anastasia, then wouldn't that leave an opening for her with Harrison?
Her heart began to beat a little faster.
She believed she was in love with Harrison—with his looks, his brilliance, and the immense power he wielded. If she were with him, no one would ever dare look down on her for her origins again.
* * *
Unaware of the siblings’ scheming, Anastasia was now browsing in a high-end department store, looking for a gift for her husband.
She was examining a selection of silk ties when a voice called out.
“Anastasia?”
It was hesitant, uncertain.
Anastasia turned to see a group of people standing nearby. One of the girls was staring at her. When their eyes met, the girl’s face broke into a wide, surprised smile, and she rushed over.
“Anastasia, it really is you! What are you doing here?”
It took Anastasia a moment to recognize her high school classmate, Gwen Garcia.
She was only a sophomore in college, so it shouldn't have been that long, but having lived a whole other life, it felt like ages since she had last seen her.
“Gwen,” she said with a warm, nostalgic smile. They had been pretty good friends back in high school. “What are you doing in Riverton?”
After a moment, Anastasia recognized her too. Another high school classmate, Monica Scott. Just as she and Gwen had been friends, she and Monica had been rivals.
Monica sauntered over, arms crossed, and gave Anastasia a dismissive once-over. A flash of jealousy crossed her face when she saw Anastasia’s features, but it was quickly replaced by smug satisfaction as her eyes scanned Anastasia’s unbranded clothes.
“Tsk, tsk. It’s been a few years, Anastasia, and it looks like you haven’t been doing so well. Did the Sterling family go bankrupt? You can’t even afford a decent outfit.”
Anastasia glanced down at her clothes with a strange expression. She hadn’t brought many things from Fairhaven, so she was wearing outfits Harrison had arranged for her. They were all from high-end bespoke designers—understated, but far more expensive and exclusive than any mainstream luxury brand.
But Monica clearly didn't recognize them, assuming they were cheap knock-offs.
Anastasia didn't bother to correct her. Noting the way the others deferred to Monica, she raised an eyebrow. “And you seem to be doing very well for yourself?”

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