Chapter 343

Mrs. Stapleton’s brow furrowed. “What if she did?”
“She knew I was planning to wear a nearly identical black gown tonight. If I hadn’t swapped dresses with Ms. Taylor, the two of us-mother and daughter-in-law- would have become a complete joke.”
At this, Mrs. Stapleton’s expression darkened. “Is that true?”
“You may not like me, and that’s fine. But at an event like this, we both represent the Stapleton family. Do you really think I would lie to you about something that affects our family’s reputation?”
Just then, Natalie walked over, a smile on her face. Seeing her in the other black dress, Mrs. Stapleton had no choice but to believe it.
“How dare they make a fool of me!” she hissed.
“Don’t worry,” Penelope said with a serene smile. “I’ve already taught them a lesson on behalf of both of us.”
Natalie engaged Mrs. Stapleton in conversation, and Penelope took the opportunity to find Mrs. Higgins. She had another motive for attending the gala: to partner with the Higgins Group on the joint development of the last major commercial plot in the city center.
The Higgins Group had won the bid for the land, but their primary business was hotels. The development plan also included a large shopping mall, which was KINY Group’s specialty. However, competition was fierce. KINY Plaza’s brand was positioned as mid-range and family-friendly, which didn’t align with the Higgins Group’s high-end business hotels, putting them at a disadvantage. Still, Penelope was determined to try and break into the luxury market.
Many others had the same idea, and Mrs. Higgins was already surrounded. Penelope saw her holding a nearly empty wine glass and had an idea. She slipped away to the kitchen and personally brewed a cup of soothing ginger tea. For origınal chapters go to
“Mrs. Higgins, let me get you a fresh drink,” she said, smoothly taking the wine glass from her hand and replacing it with the warm mug.
Mrs. Higgins was taken aback but accepted the cup. The warmth spread through her hands, and she looked at Penelope with surprise.
“I noticed you’ve had quite a bit to drink tonight. I made you some hot tea. It’s good for settling the stomach and counteracting the alcohol.”
Mrs. Higgins took a sip. A pleasant warmth flowed through her, instantly soothing
Ne discomfort in her
stomach. She let out a relieved sigh. “I have a stomach condition, but as the hostess, I couldn’t refuse a drink. To be honest, I was starting to feel quite ill. Thank you for this.”
“I made a whole pot. Would you like to join me for another cup later?”
Mrs. Higgins understood the invitation. “I would.”
With so many people vying for her attention, Penelope knew she wouldn’t get a proper conversation in the crowd She found a quiet corner and waited. Before long Mrs. Higgins joined her, a smile on her face.
Penelope poured her another cup. “Is your stomach feeling better?”
Mrs. Higgins smiled knowingly. “Did you know I was hospitalized for my stomach condition recently, Mrs. Stapleton?”
Anyone at this event was sharp enough to read between the lines. If Penelope wanted to get close to her, she would have done her research. Penelope just smiled and handed her the tea.
Mrs. Higgins accepted it with a nod
of thanks. Just then, another woman approached them. Before she could speak, Mrs. Higgins held up a hand. Please let me catch my breath. Can we agree not to talk business tonight?” sŵnovels
The woman looked disappointed but raised her glass in a toast and walked away.
…