Meanwhile, Ste and Matthew wandered off towards the clothing section, seeking inspiration for the wedding dress design.


    With Lucia away, Haley finally felt a sense of relief wash over her.


    Alone with the shop assistant, she made an unexpected request.


    “Show me the most exquisite, expensive piece you have,” she said.


    Upon Haley’s unexpected request, the shop assistant swiftly presented an array of haute couture essories.


    With each piece more stunning than thest, Haley couldn’t resist the temptation to adorn herself.


    However, the moment Lucia returned to the shop, her smile momentarily wavered at the sight of Haley, whose eyes sparkled greed.


    Lucia’s initial joy was tinged with hesitation, but she quickly regained herposure.


    “What do you think? Have you found a piece that speaks to you?” she inquired, stepping closer.


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    Caught in the act, Haley hastily removed the jewelry, her exnation tumbling out in a rush.


    “The shop assistant was so kind, urging me to try them on.


    But really, they’re far beyond what I would consider.


    ”


    With a warm and reassuring smile, Lucia gently pressed Haley’s hand.


    “Please, don’t worry about the cost.


    It’s my pleasure to gift this to you.


    Feel free to try on whatever you like.


    ”


    Haley smiled awkwardly.


    She eventually settled on a diamond bracelet.


    As they prepared to leave, Ste and Matthew returned, their timing impable.


    At Ste’s inquisitive nce, Haley disyed the bracelet, her voice tinged with unease.


    “It might seem extravagant, but your grandmother was insistent.


    It would have been rude to decline such generosity.


    ”


    Lucia’s intuition seemed to ripple with unease as she discreetly pulled Matthew aside, her voice a whisper of concern.


    “I find Ste’s mother a bit peculiar.


    Please, be cautious.


    ”


    Matthew narrowed his eyes and said calmly, “Grandma, there’s no need for concern.


    Ms.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Ramos has endured many trials to reconnect with Ste.


    It’s been a long journey for her.


    I’d ask that we try to understand and ept her.


    ”


    Though still harboring a sense of difort, Lucia recognized the delicacy of the situation.


    She feared that pressing the matter might lead to misunderstandings, especially with Ste.


    With a heavy sigh, she conceded, “Alright, for your happiness and Ste’s,I’ll hold my peace.


    ”


    Flossie’s phone buzzed, bearing an unexpected call from an unfamiliar number.


    As she picked up the phone, a voice on the other end dered, “I’m Edmund Hanson.


    ”


    Flossie’s heart skipped a beat.


    She hadn’t anticipated hearing from him again after their hurried encounter.


    Despite her attempts to reconnect, she had been met with silence until now.


    She had resigned herself to the idea that she might never have the opportunity to express her gratitude, yet his unexpected phone call shattered that belief.


    Flossie cleared her throat and addressed him formally, “Mr.


    Hanson, how may I assist you?”