The Unlucky Turn by Mark Twain 61
She genuinely worried that the comments her aunt and mother had made earlier might have offended Leilani, especially since she hoped to build a friendship with her.
Sensing Judie’s nervousness, Leilani couldn’t help but chuckle and comfort her. “It’s alright, elders are always like that.”
Initially, she had detested the idea of matchmaking, but after her recent experiences with Dante Langley, she had become somewhat desensitized to it. She could tell whether the elders were acting out of genuine kindness or social obligation. As long as things were made clear, there was no need to get angry.
Leilani glanced up at the starry sky, a thought crossing her mind. Was she suddenly a magnet for matchmakers? Everywhere she went, someone was trying to set her up. First it was Dante, and now Letty.
As they chatted, they arrived at the mall entrance. A black Rolls-Royce Phantom with a custom vanity plate glided to a halt at the main doors. The doorman stepped forward briskly, bowing respectfully as he opened the car door.
Libby linked arms with her sister and smiled at Leilani. “Dr. Sloan, you saved Judie, and we didn’t have a proper way to express our gratitude immediately. Please, let us treat you to a shopping spree. Pick whatever you like.”
Judie nodded excitedly beside them. “Yes, yes! My mom is usually so frugal, but she’s being generous today!”
Libby glared playfully at her daughter before turning back to Leilani with a warm voice. “Don’t listen to her nonsense. Dr. Sloan, please, don’t say no.”
Leilani intended to decline, but seeing the sincere attitudes of the three women, she nodded in agreement. “Then I shall graciously accept.”
The mall manager, having been notified in advance, personally came out to greet them, bowing with a welcoming gesture. “Madam, we have cleared the floor as requested. We are at your service exclusively today.”
On the third floor, in the haute couture section, the entire level was empty save for a few sales associates standing quietly on either side, smiling professionally. Judie pulled Leilani by the hand, excitedly weaving through the racks.
“Dr. Sloan, this one! This is perfect for you!” She held up a dark green velvet gown against Leilani. “With your fair skin, this will look stunning!”
Letty sat on a nearby sofa, elegantly sipping coffee, her gaze fixed on Leilani with increasing satisfaction.
“Dr. Sloan is beautiful and carries herself with such grace; she could pull off anything,” she
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whispered to Libby.
Libby nodded with a smile. “Indeed. It’s rare to find someone with such medical skill who is also so grounded.”
The two women exchanged a knowing look. This girl would be a perfect match for Callahan.
Unaware of the elders’ scheming, Leilani tried on several outfits at Judie’s urging, finally selecting a sharply tailored black dress and a light beige trench coat.
“Just these, thank you,” she said, handing the clothes to the sales associate.
Libby shook her head. “That’s too few.” She turned to the manager. “Wrap up everything she just tried on.”
Leilani was stunned. “That’s too much…”
Libby chuckled softly. “It’s just a small token of appreciation. Dr. Sloan, please don’t refuse.”
Meanwhile, at the main entrance of the mall, Carola and Tamara arrived together, chatting and laughing, their high heels clicking as they prepared for a shopping spree.
However, their plans hit a wall immediately. As soon as they reached the doors, security guards blocked their path. “Apologies, ladies. The mall is hosting VIP guests today and is temporarily closed to the public.”
Their excitement was instantly extinguished.
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Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.