Chapter 232
Was it wise for them to choose jewelry from this studio for such an occasion?
Wasn’t Cathy worried about being ridiculed?
“Belinda,” Ryland began, interrupting her thoughts. He noticed her frown and offered an awkward smile. “Mr. Cox only requested yesterday that Miss Miller and Miss Cox wear our studio’s designs at public events. And today, they decided to visit our studio, showing their trust and appreciation for our work. You…”
“Mr. Moreno,” Belinda cut in, her expression stern. “Do you honestly believe that Cathy and Maggie’s choice reflects their genuine approval of our studio? You are aware of their complex relationship with me.”
Kristopher had made it clear just yesterday that Cathy and Maggie were to wear Wildfield Design Studio’s jewelry at public events. Though Kristopher’s manner had been somewhat brusque, Belinda later concluded that he might be aiming to support the studio. Given Cathy’s and Maggie’s current stature, their choice of attire would naturally attract attention.
However, the engagement was set at the Summit Hotel, known for its intimate, not expansive, event spaces.
This meant that only close friends and family of the Cox and Miller clans would be in attendance.
In such an exclusive setting, one might expect Cathy and Maggie to opt for well-known, luxurious brands.
Yet here they were at Wildfield Design Studio, approaching her just as she was ready to leave for the day.
It seemed too intentional to be mere coincidence.
As Belinda scrutinized his narrative, Ryland could only muster a sheepish grin. “Indeed, I understand… However, Belinda, remember you accepted the terms and signed the contract this morning. Tonight marks their first official collaboration with us…”
While speaking, he retrieved a thick envelope from the drawer and slid it across the table towards her. “Think of it as compensation for the extra time; please, just put in the effort.”
Belinda’s expression grew more contemplative as she regarded the envelope.
This was not just about the money. By signing the contract that morning, she had committed to collaborating with these two women and Kristopher, all to further her own creative ambitions.
If enduring their company could advance her goals in the time she had left, she was prepared to bear it.
After all, Belinda had tolerated Maggie’s harsh words for three long years.
Yet, she hadn’t expected to confront these two women right after signing the agreement, particularly after such an exhausting day. She had dedicated her entire day to refining designs and was not in the frame of mind to handle any additional demands.
Furthermore, the idea of personally selecting jewelry for Cathy to wear at Kristopher’s proposal made her feel incredibly constricted. Taking a deep breath, she diverted her eyes from the envelope. “Mr. Moreno, this isn’t about the money. I’m thoroughly worn out today. I have no interest in using my personal time to indulge those two women’s caprices.”
“Caprices?” A cold male voice interjected from the doorway behind her. “You committed to assist them with their jewelry needs. How can you disparage your clients before you’ve even begun the task?”