Jonathan had never cared much for what was trending online, but this particular headline caught his eye, and he tapped to read more.
When he finished, he exited the page and dialed Prescott’s number.
“Are you asleep?”
“No, Mr. Thomas. Is there something you need?”
Jonathan realized how pointless his question was—Prescott would have told him he was awake regardless of the hour.
“Niamh’s uncle…”
On the other end, Prescott’s eyes widened in surprise.
He hadn’t expected Jonathan to call so late about something unrelated to business. It was about Niamh.
“Yes, Mr. Thomas. I’ll take care of it right away.”
For the next two days, Niamh paid no attention to Bagot’s affairs, and Bagot didn’t bother her either.
She spent her time searching for inspiration for the Frostvale royal project, waiting for a call from either Jonathan or Sprague.
The phone did ring, but the caller wasn’t anyone she expected.
Jenny Haute Couture Bridal.
And there, at the boutique, she ran into Susy and Julian.
Susy was radiant, dressed in an extravagant crystal-studded wedding gown. Her face glowed with happiness, and when she spotted Niamh, her smile grew even brighter, almost dazzling.
Julian, on the other hand, looked startled when their eyes met. He quickly turned away, avoiding her gaze.
Niamh hadn’t expected that reaction.
She’d already been surprised when Susy called her, but she’d figured Julian must have recommended her—after all, Niamh was now one of the hottest names in jewelry design.
But from the look on Julian’s face, it seemed he had no idea she’d been invited.
Niamh considered making an excuse to leave, but Susy gripped her hand tightly, refusing to let her go.
It dawned on Niamh—Susy wanted her there, wanted her to witness the happy chaos of their wedding preparations. She’d sensed as much when Susy sent her the wedding invitation. There was a hint of rivalry, or maybe just wariness—after all, Julian had once cared for her.
“As a professional jewelry designer, I hope you’ll give me your honest opinion,” Susy said pointedly.
Niamh didn’t hold back. “To be completely honest, none of these pieces suit you.”
Susy’s smile faltered.
“These styles are too conventional. You could absolutely pull off something far more unique.”
At that, Susy’s expression softened a little.
Julian listened quietly, silently agreeing. Everything Susy had chosen—dress, jewelry—was as opulent as possible. But to him, it was all show, no substance.
Then he watched as Niamh selected a simple pearl set for Susy—elegant, understated, and effortlessly refined.
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