Laura’s Victory Second Chance

Laura strode to her room, the jewelry box tight in her grip and a grin plastered on her face. It wasn’t the jewelry’s worth that thrilled her-it was the thought behind the gift. With a heart full of excitement, she dialed his number. The moment she heard Easton’s rich, comforting voice, her heart sk**d a beat.

“Hey,” Easton greeted.

“Thank you for the necklace,” Laura said, her voice beaming

“Do you like it?” Easton asked, his tone uncharacteristically gentle, sending a warm shiver down her spine.

“I love everything you give me,” she replied.

“Good, that’s all that matters,” Easton said, a hint of satisfaction in his voice. He could hear the joy in her words, and it pleased him.

“Is this your way of saying you’re into me?” Laura teased, a playful lilt in her voice.

“Too cheap for that, Easton shot back, his casual tone belying the depth of his feelings. Laura knew Easton wasn’t one for pretense; he meant what he said.

“Everything from you is priceless,” Laura said, her voice soft with sincerity. She knew the value of being truly cared for, and she cherished Easton’s affection.

“I heard there’s an auction show tonight, Easton changed the subject. Feel like picking out a dress together?”

Laura laughed, “You’re going to spoil me.”

After the call ended, Cedric, who had been within earshot, couldn’t help but notice the unusual softness that had come over Easton. “Could this be love? he wondered.

Cedric was taken aback. “Sir, aren’t you getting a bit carried away with Ms. Godfrey?”

Easton ignored the question and instead asked, “What does she look like?”

“Stunning. The most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen,” Cedric answered with earnest admiration.

Easton’s mind conjured an image of a girl as he traced idle patterns in the air. “I really want to see her face…” he murmured.

Meredith Vaughn’s grand show, a triennial event, was already abuzz with energy, even before the official start. It was only showcasing six pieces, but the room was abuzz with waitstaff, crystal chandeliers glittered above, and high-society guests mingled-media, socialites, and stylish women.

This was the life Olivia had always envisioned. Her eyes spotted Robert, looking sharp in a white suit. “Mom, I’m going to say hi to Robby,” she exclaimed, her excitement palpable.

“Sure, go ahead,” Emma responded, watching her daughter’s lively figure blend into the crowd. A thought nagged

at her: What if Robert had feelings for Olivia?”

For years, the Sharpe family had kept up appearances, but Emma and David secretly fretted that Laura might never fit into their world. With Olivia’s return, the family divide had only grown. If Robert fell for Olivia, it would be ideal-securing her a prosperous future without Emma’s worries.

Olivia, in a stylish white dress and subtle makeup, exuded confidence, sure of her charm. “Robby! What a surprise to see you here!” she greeted with a bright smile.

Robert’s face brightened at the sight of her. Though Olivia had only recently returned, she’d made an impression. “Hi, Liv! You made it? Where’s your sister?” Right now, his mind was on Laura; to him, Olivia was just a charming young girl.

“Isn’t she with you?” Olivia asked, feigning ignorance with a playful smile.

This piqued Robert’s interest. “Is she here at the show?”

“Absolutely! She got a necklace this afternoon, and I figured she’d be with you tonight.”

“What necklace?” Robert inquired, his curiosity piqued.

A sly smile played on Olivia’s lips. She’d h**ked him, just as she’d hoped. But she maintained her act. It’s a gorgeous gemstone necklace worth 17 million-a true token of love! It was delivered this afternoon. I must say, I’m a bit envious of Laura’s attentive boyfriend…”

Robert’s expression shifted dramatically. He mused, ‘A 17 million necklace, just given away? Who could be so generous?”

Olivia didn’t dwell on it. She knew her words would ripple through Robert’s thoughts like stones in a still pond. “Let’s find a seat, Robby.”

Laura, there to meet Easton, overheard their chat by accident. She knew Olivia never missed a chance to meddle/ A waiter approached her, bowing slightly. “Ms. Godfrey, Mr. Ryan is waiting for you.”

As the crowd mingled below, the private room upstairs was secluded. There sat Easton, his brow furrowed in thought, his profile striking. The moment the door opened, Laura’s eyes were drawn to him.

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