“Come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve ever seen her at any event,” someone else added. “Why is this the first time we’re hearing about her?”
“Yeah,” another voice lowered conspiratorially. “Why doesn’t she ever appear?”
“Oh my God,” a woman whispered dramatically. “Do you think she did something shameful? Maybe the family kicked her out.”
“That must be it,” the first man agreed quickly. “Otherwise, why wouldn’t she show up at any party?”
Violet’s fingers tightened around her wine glass.
“Come on, everyone,” she said gently, her brows knitting together as if troubled. “Don’t talk about her like that. I just feel… uncomfortable. That’s just how she is. No one can really change anyone, you know.”
She sounded concerned. Almost kind.
Then—
“Don’t you know it’s evil to badmouth someone behind their back?”
A calm, clear voice cut through the group.
The group parted instinctively.
Sophia stood there.
Silence fell.
Her posture was relaxed, her expression cool. Her green dress clung to her like a second skin. Backless. Thin straps crisscrossed over her bare skin. The bold shade made her skin glow under the lights. She wasn’t wearing anything flashy, nothing overly expensive yet the moment she appeared, the atmosphere shifted.
“That’s her,” one woman whispered, pointing discreetly. “Violet’s cousin.”
The woman beside her gasped and leaned closer to her friend. “Oh my God… you were right. She’s more beautiful than Violet.”
Violet’s fingers curled at her sides.
Just moments ago, all eyes had been on her. Now—without trying—Sophia had stolen every bit of attention.
And that was what enraged Violet the most. Sophia wasn’t even wearing something as expensive. And yet she outshone her completely.
Even standing there quietly, she was prettier. Brighter. Effortlessly striking.
That truth had always burned Violet.
Sophia raised an eyebrow slowly. “What happened?” she asked lightly. “Why did everyone suddenly go quiet?”
Her gaze landed on Violet, sharp and amused.
“Are you already tired of gossiping behind my back?”
Murmurs rippled through the crowd.
“Honestly, Violet doesn’t even compare,” someone whispered.
“She’s stunning,” another said.
“No wonder Violet looks so tense…”
The gossip spread fast.
“Everyone, I’m the one who invited Sophia,” Violet smiled sweetly at the people around her, lifting her chin with practiced elegance. ““Yes, she’s my cousin—Uncle Arthur’s daughter. She never attends family events. This is actually her first time.” She let out a light laugh. “Even I was surprised.”
