Flushed and without a retort, Lindsay could only simmer in silent frustration.


    At that moment, a staff member approached Ste and Be.


    Ladies, Mr.


    Howard Archer has invited you backstage to view the designers works as an apology, he said respectfully.


    Ste scanned the room but didnt spot Howard.


    She knew the invitation was a unique opportunity to Learn.


    Meanwhile, Pam was skeptical that her father would extend such a privilege to Ste.


    Are you sure? Why would my father invite her? she asked the staff member.


    Miss Archer, I assure you theres been no mistake, the staff member responded.


    Ste turned to Be to gauge her thoughts. With a nod of approval from her, they both prepared to rise and follow the staff member.


    Bet felt a twinge of unease about the women venturing off, especially with Sanford still absent.


    He rose with the intention of apanying them.


    The staff member quickly stopped him.


    Mr.


    Lowell, Mr.


    Archer specifically invited only the twodies, he said.


    Please wait here for Sanford.


    Well be back soon, Ste reassured Bet.


    Though hesitant, Bet realized he had little option but to stay put and sat down. As Ste and Be walked past, Lindsay averted her eyes, a twinge of jealousy and disdain in them.


    Meanwhile, Pam, seizing an opportunity as Ste walked by, subtly attempted to trip her with her foot.


    Ste reacted instinctively, her stiletto heeling down hard on Pams foot.


    A sharp scream escaped Pam, her eyes welling up with the sting of sudden pain.


    Ste shed a mischievous smile and breezily apologized.


    Oh dear, Miss Archer, how clumsy of me! I didnt even see your foot there.


    Ignoring Pams difort, Ste turned on her heel and followed the staff member toward the maze of backstage corridors.


    Pams outburst had not gone unnoticed.


    The surrounding crowd whispered disapprovingly among themselves.


    That girl really cant keep it together in public, causing such a stir at a fancy event like this. Humiliation washed over Pam in a hot wave, turning her cheeks a fiery red as she bolted from the venue.


    Lindsay, catching sight of Pams hasty retreat, decided to follow suit.


    Ste and Be wove through the venues twisting passageways.


    The disorienting paths made Stes head spin, prompting her to ask, Are we even close yet? Why is the backstage area such a trek? The staff members response wasckluster.


    Almost there.


    Just a little more patience, please.


    Sensing something was off, Ste paused to scrutinize the man.


    Can you tell me about the designers featured backstage? Id like a heads-up.


    He hemmed and hawed, eventually admitting, I… uh, I dont really have details on the designers works.