Sophia Sullivan and Isabella Robinson finished getting ready and headed straight to the SKP Mall near The Underground City.
The mall was bustling with crowds.
Isabella's sharp eyes spotted a newly opened Chanel boutique.
"It's a new store!" She tugged Sophia inside without hesitation.
The boutique glittered under dazzling lights.
Isabella immediately set her sights on the gown displayed at the central showcase.
"This haute couture just came off the runway," she whispered. "What do you think?"
Sophia examined it carefully.
The gown was indeed breathtaking. The satin silk flowed like rippling water, embedded diamonds sparkling brilliantly. The ruby at the bodice particularly stood out—it was the legendary Mermaid's Tear from the recent auction.
Such treasures were rarely displayed publicly.
"Wrap it up." Sophia handed over her black card.
The sales associate hesitated, pointing at the gown. "Miss, this is haute couture."
"I know—"
Before she could finish, a figure abruptly cut in front of them.
"I'll take this dress." A wealthy woman in sunglasses declared arrogantly. "Hurry up and package it. It'll suit my daughter perfectly."
Isabella's temper flared instantly.
"Madam, shouldn't we observe basic courtesy of first come, first served?" Her voice turned icy. "We've already claimed this dress."
She couldn't stand people who barged in like this.
Especially when Sophia rarely showed interest in clothing.
"You?" Victoria Chamberlain pushed up her sunglasses, giving them a disdainful once-over. "Can you even afford it?"
She scoffed. "I suggest you visit the wholesale market. Those clothes would suit you better."
Isabella suddenly noticed their outfits. Days of overtime had left her in simple office wear. Sophia's custom-made attire bore no recognizable brand labels.
"Still better than some nouveaux riches," Isabella shot back. "Those earrings of yours are from three seasons ago, aren't they? What a ridiculous pairing."
She turned to the sales associate. "Why are you still standing there?"
But the associate pushed the card back toward them.
"Don't make trouble, ladies." She turned to fawn over Victoria. "Will you be taking this, madam?"
Victoria lifted her chin triumphantly.
"Some people simply overestimate themselves," she said contemptuously. "I don't have time to waste with you. Package it immediately."
She needed to discuss her daughter's wedding arrangements.
This gown would make the perfect bridal gift.
The sales associate quickly agreed. "We see these types all the time—just browsing with no intention to buy."
She threw them a scornful glance.
"If you can't afford it, don't clutter up the store."