?Chapter 648:


    Linda’s reaction was far lessposed. “You?”


    Elissa straightened instinctively, her hands sped neatly in front of her, though there was a trace of nervousness in her posture. “Hello, Mr. Flynn. Hello, Miss Harris.”


    To be honest, when she first submitted her design, it had been more of a hopeful gesture than a serious expectation. She hadn’t actually thought she would be chosen. Yet, here she was, standing before the couple right now.


    Elissa’s lips pressed together, the weight of past conflict settling over her. She had once offended Linda. And now she was here, presenting herself as the designer for her wedding dress.


    Linda’s gaze lingered on Elissa, a flicker of unease in her expression.


    Why did it have to be her?


    “What’s the matter?” Ernest’s voice broke through the tension, his sharp eyes flicking to Linda.


    Ernest was fully aware of the history between the two women. And truth be told, he didn’t particrly want to deal with Elissa either.


    Without hesitation, he tightened his hold on Linda’s hand and spoke with quiet finality. “If you’re ufortable, we can always choose another designer.”


    With those words, he shut Elissa outpletely—before the conversation had even begun. The dismissal was blunt. Absolute.


    Elissa’s smile faltered, the warmth in her expression cooling. She had expected this. It seemed…


    Her efforts had been for nothing after all. She forced a small, humorless chuckle. “If Mr. Flynn insists, then I won’t overstay my wee.”


    With a quiet nod, she reached for her bag, ready to leave.


    “Wait!” Linda hesitated for a beat, then exhaled. “We’ve had our differences, but I don’t mix business with personal matters. I chose your design because I liked it, so let’s move forward professionally. Consider this a coboration—let’s leave the past where it belongs. Is that alright?”


    “Of course—” A flicker of relief crossed Elissa’s face, her eyes brightening as she prepared to answer. “Linda, please.”


    Ernest’s voice cut in, cool and measured. “A wedding dress is an important thing. It’s not just about the design—it requires countless discussions for details and fittings in the days that follow. You don’t have to work with someone you’re notfortable with. Don’t force yourself—there are plenty of talented designers out there.”


    Elissa’s breath hitched.


    The unspoken words hung between them. Why was Ernest being so particr? Linda herself didn’t mind, yet he was the one making a big deal out of it. Humph! What a “gentleman” indeed!


    Still, Linda was secretly pleased with his overprotectiveness.


    Leaning into his embrace, she smiled up at him. “I know you’re just looking out for me, but I really like her design. It’s fine… I’m not the petty type. Let’s give her a chance.”


    “Fine.” Ernest’s voice held a note of hesitation. “I just don’t want anything ruining your mood. A wedding should be a happy asion.”


    “With a husband who spoils me this much, how could I possibly be in a bad mood?”


    Linda’s eyes curved with warmth, her smile soft. “As long as you love me, I don’t care about anyone else.”


    Faced with her unwavering affection, Ernest could only sigh in defeat. “You really like her design that much?”


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