?Chapter 474:


    She said, “William, the fact that you sought out and bought back this very ne for me… it’s more than jewelry. It’s proof that we are meant for each other. All these yearster, finding each other again—that’s not just coincidence. Some bonds are written in the stars. I’ve held onto that truth every single day.”


    A flicker of emotion crossed William’s face as he finally turned to her. “I’ll pick you up at the Lawsons’ that day,” he replied, his voice low.


    Willow’s whole expression brightened, a delighted smile lifting her lips. “Perfect! Although, I don’t have a new dress yet. Could youe with me to shop for one? I promise it’ll be quick. But if you’re too busy, I totally get it.” She worried the ne between her fingers, making it clear how much it meant to her. “I just want something that really matches this.”


    William held back any protest and just nodded in approval.


    With a bounce in her step, Willow collected her Tupperware and headed out of theb.


    She spotted Ste finishing her lunch in the bustling cafeteria and called out, “Ms. Gilbert! I’m going dress shopping in a couple of days—want toe with? Maybe we can trade style secrets.”


    Ste had never been a fan of shopping sprees, especially with a handful of untouched dresses already tucked away in her closet.


    She shook her head with a polite smile. “Sorry, Miss Lawson. There’s a lot on my te right now—maybe next time.”


    Catching her words, Willow’s smile only widened, her tone syrupy sweet. “Oh, what a shame. I guess it’ll just be me and William, then. You know how guys are with fashion—I wonder if he’ll pick something that actually matches.”


    She made sure to linger on William’s name, all but waving their closeness like a g, hoping to stake her im in front of Ste.


    But Ste didn’t give her the satisfaction—she simply nodded, unfazed. “Sounds fun. Good luck finding the perfect dress.”


    Without another nce, Ste fell into step beside Sandra and headed down the hall.


    Willow bristled at Ste’s utterck of reaction.


    The indifference lodged in her chest, prickling with irritation.


    If she hadn’t already decided to put Ste in her ce at the weekend party, she would’ve snapped right then and there.


    As they moved out of earshot, Sandra leaned in, eyes shining with curiosity. “Wait, Sylvia—did Willow really invite you shopping? That’s so random.” Sandra knew the history between them, and she’d always sensed Willow’s simmering hostility toward Ste.


    Ste kept her answer light. “She’s probably just being polite. There’s a cruise ship party this weekend—that’s why she asked.”


    Sandra’s jaw dropped a little. She’d never set foot on a cruise ship. “A cruise ship party? Seriously? Can I tag along? I’ll be your assistant, your sidekick, whatever you need! I promise, you won’t even know I’m there!” Sandra’s longing and eager expression nearly made Steugh.


    “I don’t get to decide, Sandra—it’s not my party,” Ste replied, a wry smile tugging at her lips.


    Though Sandra looked a little let down, she just shrugged and let it go, sensing Ste’s hands were tied.


    Sunday rolled around. Ste sifted through her closet, finally picking out a dress when her phone buzzed with Sharon’s name.


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