?Chapter 284:


    And something about Doreen’s face tugged at Ste’s memory—she was certain they’d crossed paths before.


    “So… can I call you Sylvia? And, are you and Mr. Briggs together?” Doreen pressed, her tone breezy but her question hitting a nerve.


    The bluntness made Ste bristle, and she opened her mouth to shoot down the idea, but Doreen cut in before she could speak. “Oh, don’t get me wrong, Ste—I didn’t mean anything by it. Honestly, you and Mr. Briggs look fantastic together!”


    As Doreen gestured with her champagne ss, her excitement got the best of her. The ss tilted, sending a ssh of cold champagne across Ste’s dress. “Oh gosh, Sylvia, I’m really sorry! I didn’t mean for that to happen!”


    Gasping, Doreen set her ss down with a tter and snatched a napkin from a passing waiter.


    “That was totally my fault! I didn’t think it would tip over. Here, let me wipe it up!” Panic flickered in her eyes as she dabbed frantically at the stain.


    Ste instinctively took a measured step back, lifting a hand to gently ward her off. “Really, it’s nothing. Just a little ssh—don’t worry about it.”


    Their exchange quickly drew William’s notice. He strode over, his gaze flicking from Doreen’s flushed face to Ste’s dress.


    “What’s going on here?” he asked, his tone shaded with concern.


    Turning toward him, Ste let out a resigned sigh. “It’s nothing serious—just a bit of spilled champagne. I’ll be fine.”


    Doreen immediately dipped her head in another flurry of apologies. “I’m so sorry, Sylvia. Please, don’t mention this to my supervisor—if she hears, I might lose part of my paycheck. After the banquet, I’ll make sure your dress is spotless again!”


    Ste hadn’t been upset with her in the first ce.


    She was more baffled by Doreen’s jittery guilt than anything else.


    Nervously, Doreen shot a pleading look toward William. “Mr. Briggs, I swear I didn’t mean to get your girlfriend’s dress dirty. Please don’t be angry. I noticed you two are wearing matching essories tonight. Just give me a little time, and I’ll make sure Sylvia’s dress looks brand new.”


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    Ste’s brow furrowed in confusion. Since when had she and William be a matched pair?


    William lingered behind her, his gaze icy as itnded on Doreen.


    A tremor ran through Doreen, her eyes darting away as if she’d been caught red-handed.


    William’s stare held a silent threat, sharp enough to peel away her defenses. It was as though he could see straight through her, exposing every hidden thought.


    “So this is your first meeting, and she managed to douse you in champagne?” William queried, his voice smooth but edged with suspicion.


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