Chapter 28: Chapter 28

Chapter 28 Madame Mrs. Hans cast a condescending glance and remarked, “She’s just a crippled woman. Even if she’s here to gain the madam’s favor, why are you afraid of her?”

Olivia instantly felt reassured, clutching her mother’s arm tighter. “You’re right, Mom. Few people in the country can claim to know Madam Morgan, but you’re one of them!”

“Don’t worry. I’ve heard that President Morgan listens to her. Just be on your best behavior. As long as the madam says the word, your father’s company will continue to operate. And of course, you’ll be the natural choice for the International Socialites Gala!” Mrs. Hans adjusted the shawl on her shoulders.

With renewed confidence, Olivia and her mother walked ahead, their heads held high.

Olivia and her mother waited outside for quite some time. No one came to invite them in. Olivia grew impatient and decided to approach Melanie, who was standing beneath the cherry blossom tree.

“Well, if it isn’t Melanie Jones! You came to the Morgans‘ residence dressed so casually. Has Jones Enterprise fallen on hard times?”

Melanie turned her head to see a woman decked in finery, her eyes gleaming with arrogance.

Olivia Hans? Melanie had not expected her here.

Melanie did not want to engage in arguments with outsiders at the Morgans‘, but Olivia would not let it go. “You seemed completely unaffected by Lena and Bryan’s betrayal. Your ambitions must be quite grand if you’re in a rush to curry favor with Madam Morgan.

“I mean, Mom. How great could she be if she was close with those two?”

Melanie’s gaze turned cold, but she calmly said, “If I understand you correctly, does that mean you’re distancing yourself from your dear friend, Lena Jones? She’s quite skilled at manipulating people. So how great can you be?”

“How dare you insult me?!” Olivia snapped.

Melanie lowered her gaze. A bored expression was on her face. “Glad to know you have some self–awareness.”

“Don’t be smug, Melanie. Do you think you can represent Harbor City at the International Socialites Gala with your appearance?

Not to mention, a cripple? Stop dreaming!”

“Then who do you think is suitable? You?” Melanie retorted with a cold smile.

“Why are you laughing?” Olivia said, agitated, “My mom is a friend of Madam Morgan! When the madam finds out that Harbor City’s chosen socialite’s a cripple, she’ll withdraw your qualification on the spot!”

“Very well, I’ll be waiting.”

Melanie smiled and tapped her cane on the ground with impatience.

Olivia narrowed her eyes and was about to continue her threats when a servant arrived to escort them.

Olivia, clutching her valuable gown, looked triumphantly at Melanie. “You’ve been waiting here for quite a while, haven’t you?

Hah! When will it be your turn to meet the madam? I’ll be going now.”

Melanie shook her head, her expression filled with disdain.

Olivia observed as she walked and felt that her attire was the most elegant and stylish among the guests today. She was sure to catch Madam Morgan’s attention.

The servant led the mother and daughter inside.

Madam Morgan was engaged in conversation with several ladies. She wore light makeup and casual clothing, and her gold–

rimmed reading glasses emphasized her homely appearance. When the two elegantly dressed women entered the room, all eyes turned to them. There was a hint of surprise in everyone’s gaze.

“Madam Morgan, you look remarkably well. I’m Alicia Hans. I’d previously represented two brands under your designer label. Do you 1/2 +15 BONUS Madam Morgan smiled and nodded.

“Madam Morgan, this is a gift my mother and I prepared for you. We hope you like it,” Olivia said, eager to show off. She handed the gift directly to Madam Morgan, but the old lady did not take it. Instead, a servant behind her accepted it. That left Olivia feeling flustered.

“This is my daughter, Olivia.” Olivia’s mother stepped forward, speaking politely, “She’s a bit impulsive, please forgive her.”

“My sincerest apologies, madam!” Olivia said and bowed, feeling overwhelmed by the old lady’s presence.

“Being a little impulsive is rather endearing for a young woman,” Madam Morgan replied calmly.

Olivia felt elated upon hearing the praise from the old madam. “I heard that you are the chairperson and one of the founders of the International Socialites Gala, is that right?”

“Indeed, that’s right.”

“I also heard that while you often reside abroad, you care deeply for Harbor City and hope to see the city prosper, is that also true?”

“That’s correct as well,” Madam Morgan said, looking at Olivia.

Olivia could not contain her excitement and continued, “For the representative attending the International Socialites Gala, she must match the city’s charm and elegance. If an unworthy person is sent and she doesn’t encompass the city’s beauty, that would be an embarrassment, wouldn’t it?”

“What are you trying to say?” Madam Morgan furrowed her brow, slightly displeased.

“You may not be aware, but the socialite selected for the competition is a cripple!” Olivia pointed her finger outside. “You see her? That’s the cripple, Melanie! She’s supposed to represent Harbor City. What a joke! You must make a decision for the socialites of Harbor City. Madam Morgan!”