Liam Winston and Chloe Evans entered the ballroom foyer just as Sophia Sullivan and Isabella Robinson were browsing jewelry at the counter.
The ball hadn't begun yet, but guests already clustered around the glass displays, trying on their favorite pieces.
"You look stunning in anything, sis."
Ryan Lawrence rested his chin on his hand, his clear eyes fixed on her with admiration.
"How about that red agate necklace?"
His suggestion seemed casual, but he secretly hoped she'd swap out the serpentine necklace—rumored to be an heirloom of the Sullivan family.
Ian Gallagher gently touched the jade bracelet on her wrist. "The hue of this suits you perfectly."
Ethan Sullivan didn't comment directly but leaned closer and murmured, "Jewelry shopping is time-consuming. Ms. Robinson and Ms. Sullivan must be tired. I could reserve the entire selection for you."
The surrounding guests froze at his words.
Such extravagance was staggering.
Isabella nudged Sophia, teasing in a low voice, "You've got them wrapped around your finger, Ning. All three are clearly smitten."
She emphasized her point.
"Especially Ethan. Not only is he attentive to you, but he's even considerate enough to include your best friend."
Before she could finish, Julian Roscente approached with an elegant jewelry box.
"Ms. Robinson, please accept this humble gift as an apology for our previous misunderstanding."
Dressed in a deep blue tuxedo with gold cufflinks, he carried himself with more poise than usual.
Sophia's eyes gleamed with amusement as she playfully pushed Isabella forward.
"Now here's someone who truly pays attention. He even remembered your favorite Van Cleef & Arpels."
"Oh, you're mocking me now!"
"Wouldn't dare."
Their playful banter created an intimacy that left no room for others.
Seeing Ethan and the others ready to pay, Sophia immediately interjected, "I prefer to purchase what I choose myself."
Ethan remained composed. "We agreed earlier—anything you select is my treat, as compensation."
Knowing Sophia disliked accepting favors, he smoothly redirected the conversation to Julian.
"Besides, today's gathering is hosted by Mr. Roscente."
Julian faltered momentarily.
Before he could respond, Ethan continued, "Our joint venture's profits will be disbursed soon, bringing substantial returns to your company. Since you intended to gift Ms. Robinson jewelry anyway, why not cover both ladies' selections now? It saves the hassle of transfers later."
His reasoning was flawless.
"Consider it part of the collaboration's benefits."
Julian gritted his teeth internally.
Since when did this man care about "hassle"?
This was blatant retaliation for his investigation into Sophia.
"An excellent suggestion, Mr. Sullivan," Julian replied with a fox-like smile. "Ms. Sullivan and Ms. Robinson may choose freely—everything today is on me."
He agreed readily, though inwardly cursing his friend for abandoning decades of camaraderie over a woman.
After all these years of outmaneuvering Ethan, he'd finally been outplayed.
Some best friend.
True companions existed to scheme against each other at crucial moments.