Don’t worry about it!
After exchanging some casual pleasantries, the call ended.
…
Lillian’s Studio was just around the corner. Mila walked through the wooded path, arriving at the front of her studio, only to notice several cars parked across the street. People were bustling about, moving furniture in and out of the house opposite.
Are they moving in?
At that moment, a young woman directing the movers spotted her and approached with a wave.
Miss Lillian, it’s been a while since you were last around. How have you been?
Here, Mila was known by her studio name, so neighbors called her Lillian.
Returning the greeting with a smile, Mila asked casually, Are you moving?
Yes, indeed.
The woman’s eyes twinkled with delight. This place is just too remote and inconvenient for daily life. I’ve wanted to sell this villa for ages but couldn’t find the right buyer. Then, a few weeks ago, a Ph.D. graduate from overseas contacted me, offering a price well above market value. They plan to move in soon, so I’m here to get everything ready.
The mention of a Ph.D. from overseas made Mila’s brow twitch slightly.
She’d been on edge about those words lately, reminded of Giselle, who had just returned from abroad with a doctorate. But then she thought, Giselle had no shortage of places to stay in Kingsford. The Harvey family mansion was hardly lacking in space. She must be out of her mind to pay a high price for a villa in such a secluded area.
Pushing aside the thought, Mila congratulated her neighbor with a warm smile.
They parted ways, each returning to their own tasks.
…
After a busy afternoon working on her portfolio, the time for the gala was fast approaching.
Mila was exasperated by this fool. She took out her phone and showed the electronic invitation to the staff checking at the entrance.
It was an invitation Roland had sent her personally.
The staff verified it, but hesitated to let her in, frequently glancing at Ryan, aware that he was one of the hosts.
Ryan was surprised Mila had an invitation, but it didn’t matter to him. Even if she did, he wasn’t going to let her in. The Lockwood family’s gatherings were not open to outsiders, especially not to someone he detested.
Get out. How dare you show your face here after everything?
Nearby guests began to notice the standoff, casting curious glances and whispering among themselves. A few recognized Mila, but most thought she was an unknown woman trying to crash the party.
Suddenly, the atmosphere shifted as a commotion erupted from behind.
Both Mila and Ryan turned to see what was happening. A sleek black limousine had pulled up, and Lysander was assisting Giselle, resplendent in a stunning gold and blush gown, out of the car.