CHAPTER 73

Chapter 73

There was quite a commotion, loud enough for everyone to hear.Penelope chuckled, sipping her lemon water, seemingly pleased with the outcome. Although she hadn’t interacted with Miranda directly, she was aware of the recent competition for her resources, which left an impression.In the entertainment industry, such battles were nothing new. Miranda still attempted to cut ahead of Penelope in line for her custom-made gown, which seemed a bit excessive. It was satisfying for Penelope to see Miranda fail to get what she wanted.The store manager was inside. Even if they managed to produce the dress today, which seemed unlikely, Miranda probably wouldn’t be satisfied. She would end up bearing the brunt of the blame. “We’ve done our best… “1“What kind of effort did you put in? Everyone else is dressed perfectly, but only Miranda’s gown isn’t done. You’re doing this on purpose!”“You’re just accusing me.”Hearing them arguing, Miranda came out with a smile, asking in a friendly tone, “What’s going on? Why all the fuss?”The assistant replied, “Miranda, your gown isn’t ready yet and you have to wear it later. With so many people outside, if you can’t wear this gown, it’ll be embarrassing. How can we maintain our reputation?” Miranda looked at the assistant, then at the store manager, speaking calmly, “I didn’t think it was such a big deal, Ruby. Don’t make it difficult for her. I’ll just wear the backup. If I become a laughingstock, it won’t just affect us. No need to be so angry.”Though she didn’t blame anyone explicitly, her words carried implications that the store manager picked up on. If Miranda lost face, it might offend Nash.Yvonne interjected, “Nina, don’t you think they’re going too far? They act like they own the place.”Miranda was adept at putting on a façade, smiling while harboring ulterior motives. However, this store manager was definitely going to have a hard time.Moreover, they worked overnight on Nina’s gown. Nina glanced at Yvonne, asking, “Did you have any involvement in this, influencing Liz?”Yvonne pursed her lips. “She was just being too ostentatious.”The assistant didn’t believe the store manager and asked again,” our words are just deceiving. You must have been rushing for someone else last night, Who was it? Who dared to compete with Miranda?” The store manager remained silent.Miranda was nearby, not saying anything, but she was listening. Her gaze shifted to Penelope, revealing some uncertainty.+15 BONUSIn the entertainment industry, being just a singer wouldn’t suffice; the path would be too limiting. Furthermore, with her health issues at play, transitioning was imperative. Presently, Penelope posed the greatest challenge. They would also become each other’s biggest competitors.Miranda didn’t really care about Penelope. Apart from acting, Penelope had an ordinary family background and rose from minor roles to her current status. So, Miranda wasn’t afraid of her but she couldn’t rule out the possibility of her sabotaging behind the scenes.Miranda’s lips curled up slightly as she gently asked, “Liz, I know Penelope loves coming to your store, and you have a good relationship with her. It’s normal for you to work overnight to rush her order. I won’t blame you.”As Penelope’s assistant heard this, it was hard to swallow. She retorted coldly, “Stop being so sarcastic. Penelope has always been low-key, unlike you, flaunting your status! You’re trying to show dominance to everyone here; afraid we don’t know how popular you are now, with someone backing you up!”Penelope didn’t interrupt her assistant from speaking. After she finished, Penelope calmly said, “Quiet down. It’s impolite to argue in public.”It was only after she spoke that her assistant stepped back.The store manager didn’t want to drag others into the situation. “It’s not true. Penelope’s gown was finalized long ago. Miranda, it’s my fault. I’ll refund the deposit to you.”With so many people watching, she couldn’t afford to lose face. It would be a laughingstock to create a scene right after arriving.Suppressing her resentment, Miranda stared coldly at the store manager. “Who will make up for my losses then?”Seeing Miranda’s icy glare, the store manager knew she wasn’t someone to mess with. Suddenly, she regretted getting involved.