Chapter 337

By the time Penelope arrived at the private club where Mrs. Higgins was hosting her gala, the event was already in full swing. The hostess herself greeted her at the
door.
“Mrs. Stapleton! We’ve been eagerly awaiting you.”
Mrs. Higgins was in her fifties but looked remarkably youthful, her skin glowing and her face nearly wrinkle-free. Her long, curly hair was swept up in a casual but elegant style, and her low-cut evening gown showcased a graceful figure that could rival a woman twenty years her junior. She took Penelope’s hand with a warm smile, then glanced around. “Oh? Where is Mrs. Stapleton Sr.? I assumed you two would arrive together.”
As a new bride in the Stapleton family, it was expected that she would attend her first major social event with her mother-in-law. It was a way to present a united front and for the elder Mrs. Stapleton to introduce her into her social circle.
But when Penelope had called her, Mrs. Stapleton had said curtly, “You do not represent the Stapleton family, and I do not acknowledge you as my daughter-in- law.”
So she had come alone.
Still, she couldn’t tarnish the family’s reputation. As several nearby women casually glanced over, she knew she had to provide a plausible explanation or rumors of a feud would spread like wildfire.
“She was held up by something last minute,” Penelope said smoothly. “She’ll be here a little later, but she was worried you’d be waiting, so she sent me ahead.”
“Oh, is that so?” Mrs. Higgins beamed, clearly flattered that Mrs. Stapleton was so considerate of her. “Well, please, come in, come in.”
Mrs. Higgins turned to greet other guests, and Penelope slipped into the ballroom. Not knowing anyone, she felt a bit adrift. Just then, she received a text from Natalie telling her to look toward the east-side window. It was too dark to see clearly, so she walked closer and spotted Natalie waving at her from a secluded corner.
Penelope grabbed two glasses of juice and handed one to her. “I thought you were on set. I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“I’ve taken a few days off,” Natalie said with a shrug, though her smile seemed a bit forced.
Penelope suddenly remembered the recent online rumors about Hamilton Amos and some starlet. That must have been why Natalie was taking a break. “Well, now that I have you, you’re treating me to dinner tomorrow night,” she said, clinking her glass against Natalie’s.
Natalie laughed. “Why aren’t you drinking?”
Penelope pouted. “Trying to get pregnant.”
Natalie’s face mirrored hers. “Me too.”
The two alcohol-deprived friends sighed and touched glasses again.
“That black gown is elegant on you,” Natalie.commented, her expert eye assessing the outfit, “but it lacks a bit opspark It doesn’t quite match your makeup
Penelope sighed. “I know. I was sabotaged by a petty rival.”
Natalie’s eyes twinkled. Without asking for details, she unpinned the rose brooch from her own dress and fastened it onto Penelope’s. It was the perfect finishing touch, instantly elevating the entire look. Conten
“But what about you? I can’t take your brooch.” The source of this content ɪs.net
“Please,” Natalie scoffed playfully. “Natalie Taylor’ is more dazzling than any accessory, don’t you think?”
Penelope grinned. “Of course.”
“Besides,” Natalie added, “I’m just here to make an appearance for Mrs. Higgins, You, on the other hand are going to be movin
these circles. A strong first O impression is crucial.”
“Thank you,” Penelope said, giving her friend a warm hug.
Just then, a stir went through the ballroom as many of the guests rose and moved toward the entrance.
…