Chapter 393

Chapter: 393

However, Nancy's fluctuating moods and irritable demeanor had not gone unnoticed. There existed something beneath the

surface that one couldn't find from her mere resume.

Asudden, unexpected flutter jolted Nancy's heart. In Mrs. Barton’s statement, Nancy discerned an undercurrent of mockery

aimed at her perceived arrogance.

Marcus’ countenance shifted, a shadow descending upon his features. His gaze, weighted with both appraisal and reproach,

fastened upon Nancy as he pronounced, “You may depart.”

“Wait a moment. By chance, | encounter yet another jewelry designer. Mr. Thomas, would you consent to a friendly competition

between Nancy and this newfound artisan?” Mrs. Barton inquired.

Marcus’ visage underwent a subtle transformation. An inkling unfurled, hinting that Mrs. Barton’s sentiment towards Nancy was

far from amiable.

With a calm demeanor, he replied, “Certainly.”

Atide of annoyance surged within Nancy’s being.

She had apprehended the implications underlying Mrs. Barton's intentions—to pit her against a fellow designer, an implication

that Nancy’s prowess needed validation. The notion was ludicrous; who could rival her unmatched skill? Nancy regarded Mrs.

Barton’s actions with dismissive disdain.

Marcus, with an arched brow and casual demeanor, suggested, “Could | have the pleasure of meeting the designer you

mentioned, Mrs. Barton?”

In response, Mrs. Barton’s gaze was directed towards Simon, an instruction implicit in her expression. “Summon Miss Brown, if

you would.”

Miss Brown? Instantly, Millie’s image surfaced in Marcus’ mind, although the notion appeared implausible. Since when had Millie

become acquainted with Mrs. Barton? simon delivered the invitation.

While she was gently setting aside her spoon, Millie’s gaze swept the surroundings, and she inquired, “Is there a way | can be of

assistance to Mrs. Barton?”

Surprise rippled through her as she noted the continued presence of Marcus and Nancy, her confusion mounting. Millie could

discern no reason for her presence in this context.

Simon’s expression bore a secretive quality as he said, “A splendid affair awaits you; the revelation shall transpire upon your

arrival.”

Mrs. Barton directed her gaze towards Millie, a smile gracing her lips. Declining the invitation seemed inappropriate, compelling

Millie to rise from her seat and offer a nod of agreement.

Upon Millie’s arrival, escorted by Simon, Nancy’s brows knitted in surprise, her expression shifting swiftly to a frown.

Even Marcus’ eyes widened as they rested upon Millie. The duo collectively exhibited surprise, as if Millie were a revelation they

were encountering for the first time.

Mrs. Barton gestured towards the vacant seat beside her and said, “Miss Brown, please take the seat. | want to ask a favor.”

“Mrs. Barton, please proceed.” Millie complied, taking her seat with a polite demeanor.

“| understand you are a jewelry designer,” began Mrs. Barton. “I propose a design challenge for both you and Nancy: a necklace

fashioned according to my specified theme. This is to ascertain which of you excels in jewelry design.”

Millie felt a glimmer of positivity at this proposition.

Meanwhile, Nancy clenched her lips, her face twitching as if grappling with considerable indignation.