Thanks to Mrs. Amanda's endorsement, she smoothly became a member.
Mrs. Amanda chuckled, "Oh, it's nothing. Come on, let me show you around."
Sophia couldn't help but interject, "Mrs. Amanda, I'm afraid you'll have to return Ms. Langston to me first. We have a planning meeting scheduled today."
"Oh, right, I almost forgot. Why don't I join you for that meeting?"
"I'd love that."
Sophia linked arms with Mrs. Amanda as they walked, chatting about their families with an easy rapport.
Lemira walked beside Mrs. Amanda, feeling a bit like a third wheel, considering Mrs. Amanda and Sophia almost became mother-in-law and daughter-in-law.
Soon, they arrived at a banquet hall.
As soon as Sophia appeared, someone approached her, "Weren't you supposed to pick someone up? What took you so long? Who's important enough to have Ms. Sinclair fetch them personally?"
"Ms. Langston is visiting for the first time and isn't a member yet, so I went to meet her."
Sophia introduced Lemira to them.
The woman who had spoken earlier sized up Lemira, "I heard your last charity sale was quite underwhelming."
"Yeah, the setup was so basic. Those who knew it was a charity event might understand, but others might think it was a beggar's gathering."
Evelina quickly added, "I was organizing that event, you know, and Susanna even gave me previous event plans Ms. Sinclair had done as a reference. But Lemmy said it was too extravagant and changed everything."
She effectively pinned the blame on Lemira.
Lemira's expression cooled a bit, "I believe a charity event doesn't need luxury decor; it's a waste of money."
The little incident passed, as no one dared to argue once Mrs. Amanda spoke.
Lemira stuck close to Mrs. Amanda, getting introduced to the influential ladies present.
Watching this, Sophia felt a pang of anxiety. Originally, she planned to act on the day of the event, but her patience was wearing thin.
Sophia signaled her associates, who quickly brought several boxes forward.
Sophia took the initiative, "Everyone, come take a look. These are donations from our foundation, mostly sanitary products. Let's decide which ones are suitable."
Lemira joined to inspect the variety of brands.
Suddenly, someone held up a pack, exclaiming, "Who purchased these? They're all expired!"
Lemira's heart skipped a beat when she recognized the brand. That was what their foundation bought. Could Evelina have tampered with the supplies?

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