Matthew looked on as we left together. In just two days, I completed all the paperwork and enrolled Ava in Sunnydale Kindergarten. Initially, I assumed it was a given since we lived in the neighborhood.However, as I checked out Ava's classroom, I overheard two teachers chatting. "Wasn't the kindergarten full? How did she manage to get in?""Do you know who made the request?""Who?" The plump Ms. Marigold asked her colleague. The colleague whispered her reply, and Ms. Marigold dropped her jaw. Her response puzzled me. Was there something unusual about Atlas's arrangement? I didn't dwell on it because what mattered was that Ava got in.That night, Ava told me, "Mommy, the teacher at school was nice to me. She gave me extra food and didn't let the other kids take my toys. She even said I was the prettiest girl in the class!""Really? What did she teach you?" Seeing her enthusiasm relieved me. After all, who wouldn't enjoy some special treatment? Nonetheless, I wondered who had

Ava shouted, "Mommy, no phone calls at the dining table. Grandma says we aren't supposed to talk so much while eating."I giggled and quickly put down my phone. I kissed her and said, "You're right. Let's eat."Atlas's call had put my mind at ease. I was sure he had a plan in place. The next day, Grayson walked into my office holding a large bag. "Ms. Chloe, your gown."I didn’t think Atlas was being serious. Grayson placed the bag on the coffee table and left. Curious, I hurried over to inspect its contents. I pulled out a box and inside was a stunning white gown with exquisite jewels.It was the kind of dress that reminded me of something Snow White might wear. I was eager to put it on immediately. Matthew had never bought me any nice clothing, let alone a gown. I had never attended important events before and was unaware of the dress code.I called Ivanna to tell her about the party. She agreed to pick up Ava and even arranged for a makeup artist for me. Ivanna was a great

Liora glanced at me smilingly. "It's a pleasure! I finally have the honor of meeting you, Ms. Chloe. I heard you’re virtuous and exemplary. I have a lot to learn from you.”Although she sounded polite, her words had an underlying awkwardness. I was puzzled but knew she was far from friendly.“You’re too kind, Mrs. Liora. I’ll have to rely on your support in the future,” I replied cautiously. I didn’t need to offend her since it was her family’s event. It was wise to keep a low profile.Liora sneered, “Ms. Chloe, you’re being too modest. Who am I to support you? You’re a model for all of us. Please feel at ease here. Everyone is upright and respectable. You don’t have to worry about anyone harassing you.”Immediately after, she turned and left arrogantly.I blushed when I noticed people looking at me. It was apparent Liora referred to the other night’s incident. Several of her female friends glanced sidelong at me before following her.At some point, Lauren appeared beside me, say

My heart sank, wondering if Matthew was bluffing. He was so despicable that it frustrated me further. Just then, Stella approached with an eager smile and said, “Chloe! I finally get to talk to you. What are you doing here?”She glanced at Matthew and then at the drink he had handed me. She looked embarrassed and said, "Did I interrupt you two?"When Matthew stepped forward, someone bumped into him and apologized. However, Matthew didn’t mind and focused on me. He grinned, saying, “It’s nothing. We were just discussing something that concerned you, Ms. Stella.”The man who had accidentally bumped into Matthew passed by again and patted him on the back, saying, "Sorry!"Matthew was annoyed and glared at the man before returning his attention to Stella."Me?" Stella looked surprised and asked, "What does this have to do with me?""Matthew, what are you trying to say?" I asked coldly, feeling uneasy. I knew he was up to something."You should ask Chlo. Right, honey?" Matthew's smug

I faltered when I realized what had happened. Still, I sighed and left Echelon Towers.Since I came here in Ryan’s car and didn’t want Atticus’s man to take me home, I took a cab. I told Ryan to stay behind because many high-profile figures from the real estate industry were there.I knew the event wasn’t just a congratulatory gathering. It was also an opportunity for Ryan to network with these people. Furthermore, these people were well-connected. As for Lauren, she was excellent at gathering information.I had sensed something was amiss with Stella tonight. Also, Atlas wasn’t just there to celebrate his competitor’s success.Meanwhile, I became the plot twist in this drama. I overestimated Matthew because he was nowhere near as intelligent as Atlas and Atticus. Matthew was a child compared to them.I felt a chill in my heart as I entered the cab. My mind seemed distracted, unable to keep up with the mess. As the cab drove into Ember Lane, it suddenly stopped. The driver cursed,