Chapter 18
Allison felt calm. She knew Kate sent that video to stake her claim and try to embarrass her, hoping she’d see the truth and dump Shawn. And that was exactly Kate’s plan. She imagined Allison watching the video, breaking down in tears, breaking up with Shawn, and heading back home in shame. But little did Kate know that the words in that video didn’t faze Allison.
In the video, Shawn was busy whispering sweet nothings to Kate, which just made Allison feel queasy, so she clicked away without watching more. Her fingers danced over her phone as she typed out a message: [I’m really not in the same league as you guys.]
Kate saw the message, smirked, and quickly replied using Shawn’s account: [At least you know your place.]
Allison chuckled. The Reynolds Group was a small fry compared to even one of her family’s subsidiaries. Their annual profits were peanuts compared to the investments her father casually tossed around. The Owens family had been in business for four generations, and when Allison was born, they were among the top ten wealthiest in the country. She really wasn’t in the same league as a run–of–the–mill rich kid like Shawn.
No one had a clue that Allison was the daughter of Javier Owens.
This little drama didn’t put a dent in Allison’s mood. It’s a rare day off, so she lounged around, scrolling through high–end fashion websites, picking out dresses for her engagement. After a long search, she was torn between three stunning gowns.
The first was a modern twist on a traditional ballgown, in champagne, with delicate pink embroidery and scattered rhinestones. Three strands of tiny pearls draped elegantly from the neckline over the arm and down the back. It was dazzling and sweet, perfect for a cute vibe.
The second was a strapless gown in moonlit white. It featured a rose design at the bust and was cinched at the waist and hips like a mermaid silhouette and a floor–length train. It was mature and elegant.
The third was an ivory off–the–shoulder princess tulle gown. Its layer of sheer white tulle was adorned with scattered red rose petals, giving it a romantic and graceful feel.
She posted pictures of the three dresses on social media with a playful caption: [Decision fatigue! Help me choose the best one?]
Within minutes, the likes and comments poured in.
Joshua: [They’re all gorgeous. If you love them, why not get them all and switch it up?]
Her childhood best friend, Olivia, chimed in: [Wow, Allie, your taste is impeccable. All three are perfect for you. Have Joshua buy them all. You’ve got the budget!]
Another close friend, Sabrina, commented: [Allie, you’re a princess and look stunning in anything!]
Breanna: [Oh wow, what’s the occasion? Allie, are you picking out wedding gowns? Are you
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getting hitched?]
As Allison scrolled through the supportive comments from friends and family, a few remarks stood out.
Pearl: […]
Jayden: [Allison, is there a reason for this post…?]
Colt: [Seriously, Allison, you crack me up with your wild ideas!]
Colleague A: [These are all designer releases. Before showing off, maybe check the price tags… You couldn’t even rent them, let alone buy them.]
Colleague B: [Living the dream! Your life is what I fantasize about.]
Shawn: [What?]
Allison saw Shawn’s comment and raised an eyebrow. It looked like he had finally sobered up. Just then, she got a message from him.
Shawn: [Take down the social media post!]
Allison: [No.]
Shawn: [Are you trying to publicly push me into marriage? Didn’t you hear a word I said earlier?]
Allison: [Oh.]
Shawn: [Allison, this has to stop.]
Allison didn’t bother responding.
