Chapter 266
Chapter 266:
“How did you manage to smooth things over?” Sierra pressed, intrigue dancing in her eyes.
“Just called Freak Design.” Janice’s shoulders lifted in a casual shrug, her expression unruffled.
Sierra’s brow creased in confusion. Who could Janice possibly have called?
“It’s Leah Sugden,” Janice added before Sierra could voice her question. “You know I’m JE’s best friend, right?”
Sierra nodded eagerly.
“Leah and JE are friends too. Think about what that means.”
Understanding illuminated Sierra’s features.
Right! Janice’s friendship with JE was her trump card. JE’s influence stretched far beyond international borders, dwarfing Leah’s own considerable status. Such a connection naturally commanded Leah’s respect and cooperation.
“Janice, you’re amazing!”
“It’s nothing, really.”
But before Janice could settle into her modest deflection, she caught Sierra’s hopeful, gleaming eyes.
Janice froze, then dropped her head into her hands with a groan. “I should have kept my mouth shut.”
“Janice, pretty please!” Sierra latched onto Janice’s arm, giving it an enthusiastic shake. “You’re absolutely wonderful! You wouldn’t leave me to eat lunch all by myself, would you?”
With a resigned sigh, Janice conceded to bringing Sierra along to her lunch with Leah.
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Leah had crafted her appearance with meticulous care—a flowing dress in ethereal blues and whites that enhanced her natural grace. Her subtle makeup completed the almost mythical quality of her beauty.
To the world, Leah projected an aura of razor-sharp intimidation, but around Janice, she donned a different mask—the epitome of grace and charm, a gentle soul who could have lived next door.
“Janice, who might this be?” Leah’s question carried a note of frost. Sierra’s proximity to Janice—clinging like an adoring younger sister—hadn’t escaped her notice, and she sensed a deeper bond between them.
Her gaze turned subtly accusatory, wounded, as if Janice had committed some silent betrayal.
Janice cleared her throat, navigating the delicate moment. “Allow me to make introductions. This is Sierra Ramirez. She’s found herself at odds with her family lately, so she’s been keeping me company for the time being.”
“Ramirez?” Leah’s eyes narrowed to calculating crescents as she reassessed Sierra with newfound interest.
But her stern facade crumbled almost instantly, melting into a smile that spoke of amused resignation.
“Wow, Ms. Sugden, you’re absolutely stunning!” Sierra gushed, her eyes sparkling with admiration as she gazed at Leah. “I think you’re the most beautiful woman aside from Janice.”
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