THE DIVORCE GAMBIT From Dumped Wife to CEO's Forever novel Chapter 291

“Come in,” Caitlin said calmly.

The visitors were none other than Caitlin’s eight aunts by marriage.

Jade stepped forward first, holding a dress. “Freya, this is a custom gown and crystal heels I had made for you. They just arrived this morning, flown in from Europe. Try them on—see if they fit.”

It was a deep burgundy evening dress.

Ruby gemstones were sewn into the hem, each one catching the light and gleaming brilliantly.

Most importantly, every gem was authentic—real stones, not glass.

The total value? Over three million dollars.

Kelley produced a pair of exquisite diamond earrings. “Freya, these are for you. They’ll look perfect with Jade’s dress. Promise me you’ll wear them tonight, okay?”

Stephanie had been waiting her turn, and now she revealed a velvet box. “Freya, I picked out this necklace just for you. Let me tell you, this was once worn by a princess! I’ve been saving it for ages, just waiting for you to come home and dazzle everyone with it.”

Not to be outdone, Hedwig quickly presented her gift. “Freya, I found this ring for you. Trust me—it has quite the story…”

Elaine Prescott joined in, offering her own box. “Freya, I brought you this bracelet. It’s got some history, too…”

Adelina, Babette, and Molly Archer all chimed in, each handing over carefully chosen presents.

By now, Caitlin’s makeup was finished. She gathered up the armful of gifts and smiled gratefully at her aunts. “Aunt Jade, Aunt Kelley, Aunt Stephanie, Aunt Hedwig, Aunt Elaine, Aunt Adelina, Aunt Babette, Aunt Molly—I’ll go try everything on in the dressing room.”

“Go on! Hurry, we can’t wait to see!” they encouraged, shooing her toward the door.

Caitlin disappeared inside with the stylist, leaving the eight aunts waiting eagerly outside.

Ten minutes passed.

When Caitlin finally emerged, she looked breathtaking.

Burgundy was a notoriously difficult color to pull off—on anyone with even slightly sallow skin, it could look harsh and unflattering. But Caitlin’s complexion was luminous, and the deep red dress transformed her into something ethereal, almost otherworldly.

It was the kind of beauty that left people speechless.

On her wrists, neck, and ears, Caitlin wore every single piece her aunts had given her.

These jewels were not for the faint of heart; on most people, such extravagance would look garish and overwhelming. But not on Caitlin. She wore them as if she’d been born to it, her elegance and poise outshining even the most dazzling diamond.

Against her, even the brightest jewels seemed to fade.

The moment she stepped out, all eight aunts drew in a collective breath.

“My goodness! Freya looks absolutely stunning!” one exclaimed.

“I’ve never seen anyone wear so much jewelry and still look so fresh and graceful,” another marveled.

“If our Freya ever went into show business, I doubt any other actress would stand a chance,” a third joked.

Caitlin—this country girl—might be dressed up like royalty, but she’d never truly fit in. Ann was sure she’d make a fool of herself before the night was over.

The Richards family might dote on Caitlin, but their reputation still mattered. If Caitlin embarrassed herself at the gala, would they really keep favoring her?

No, if she stumbled tonight, they’d distance themselves soon enough.

That thought comforted Ann. She forced a smile and turned to Caitlin. “Freya, the party’s about to start. Grandma sent me to check if you’re ready.”

“I’m all set,” Caitlin replied, glancing over her shoulder.

With her aunts clustered protectively around her, Caitlin made her way to the grand hall. It wasn’t quite six o’clock, but guests were already arriving.

Keira and Amanda greeted people at the entrance.

Hannah and several of Caitlin’s uncles were deep in conversation near the fireplace.

Her thirteen cousins were gathered at a card table, laughter drifting through the air.

The whole place was alive with warmth and excitement.

Spotting Caitlin, Keira waved her over. “Freya, come here, darling!”

“Grandma!” Caitlin called, her face lighting up as she hurried over.

Keira took her hand, her gaze soft with affection. “My Freya, you look absolutely beautiful tonight. Just like an angel come down from heaven.”