## Lillian’s Studio
Mila walked into another room and flipped on the light switch.
There, resting on a mannequin, was a deep purple embroidered suit with intricate designs—a custom piece for an important client.
This client was shrouded in mystery. Despite the personalized nature of the suit, Mila had never met him. Instead, he had sent over a detailed list of measurements and style preferences through an intermediary. The dimensions were impressive, and so was his taste.
If it weren’t for a close friend’s recommendation, Mila might have hesitated to take the job.
Moreover, the client had been exceedingly generous. The deposit alone amounted to a substantial sum, a hundred thousand dollars, making it the largest transaction Mila had ever secured—a significant milestone in her career.
With the suit’s delivery just days away, Mila planned to dedicate the next couple of days to the finishing touches, ensuring everything was perfect. That night, she decided to stay at her studio to focus entirely on the task.
—
The following day, Mila immersed herself in the final adjustments of the suit and worked on updating her portfolio. Time slipped by unnoticed.
It wasn’t until Miranda called, inviting her out for dinner, that Mila realized how hungry she was. She stood up, feeling dizzy from the long hours hunched over her work.
Popping a piece of candy into her mouth for a quick energy boost, Mila drove to the private restaurant Miranda had chosen. She parked and was just about to step out when something caught her eye.
Not far away, a familiar car was parked. She watched as Giselle and Lysander stepped out. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw her son, Adrian, leap out of the car and run eagerly into Giselle’s arms, the two appearing quite close.
Mila suddenly felt a lump in her throat, like a stone had crushed her heart.
Lysander, Giselle, we’ve been waiting for you guys forever.
Let’s go! Tonight, Lysander is treating us all to welcome Giselle back and celebrate her return to the country!
Mila recognized them—Lysander’s childhood friends, all part of the same social circle.
They were also Giselle’s childhood friends. Growing up together, their families always hoped Lysander and Giselle would eventually marry. Though the two never officially dated, everyone anticipated it was only a matter of time.
But no one foresaw Mila stepping in and unexpectedly marrying Lysander. Giselle had been studying abroad when it happened, and after hearing about Lysander’s sudden marriage, she didn’t return for several years.
Lysander and Giselle’s mutual friends never approved of Mila. They saw her as undeserving, believing she had resorted to underhanded tactics to win Lysander’s heart, thus humiliating Giselle.