An Understated Dominance - Chapter 129

“Dahlia, you can go up first. I’m waiting for a friend,” Julie said, making an excuse as they entered the hotel lobby.

She knew that as long as Dahlia was there, she wouldn’t get the attention she wanted. How would she meet the rich and famous? How would she find eligible men?

“Okay, I’ll wait for you at the banquet hall,” Dahlia replied without thinking much and took the elevator up.

Once Dahlia was gone, Julie quickly became the center of attention. She walked around the lobby, acting flirtatiously to attract eyes.

A few men approached her to start a conversation, but she turned them all down, enjoying the challenge of playing hard to get.

“Wow, your earrings are beautiful! Where did you get them?” one man asked.

“Yes! I’ve never seen earrings like those before!” another chimed in.

“These rubies are huge! They must have cost a fortune!” a woman added.

Before long, not just men but women were coming over to admire her earrings. Women always loved jewelry.

“These ruby earrings are from Pandarum. My boyfriend gave them to me. They’re custom-made, the only pair out there. As for the price, they weren’t too expensive—just a million or two,” Julie said casually, smiling as if it were no big deal.

Even though she tried to sound humble, her arrogance showed.

“A million or two, and you say it’s not expensive? Looks like you’re not just anyone!” someone exclaimed.

“How lucky you are to have a boyfriend who gives you such precious gifts!” another added.

“It’s not just about the price; it’s about the sentiment behind the gift,” Julie said, trying to keep the conversation going.

hand out for a handshake, trying to appear confident.

Tina smiled back warmly, taking Julie’s hand. “Nice to meet you, Julie!”

The group of women around them watched closely, waiting to see how this interaction would unfold. Julie was thrilled; this was her chance to shine.

“I love your style,” Julie continued, hoping to impress Tina. “Those earrings you’re wearing are stunning!”

Tina glanced at her earrings and smiled. “Thank you! I really appreciate that.”

As they chatted, the crowd buzzed with excitement, eager to hear more. Julie felt a rush of pride, soaking in the attention and the thrill of being near someone so important.

Just then, a few more people joined the gathering, and the atmosphere grew even more lively. Julie realized this was her moment to stand out.

“I heard your father is hosting a big event soon. Are you going to be there?” Julie asked, trying to steer the conversation toward something that would keep Tina interested.

“Yes, I will be!” Tina replied, her eyes sparkling. “It’s going to be amazing.”

Julie nodded, feeling more confident. “I’d love to hear more about it. Maybe we could chat again sometime?”

“I’d like that!” Tina said, her smile brightening.

With that, the two exchanged a few more friendly words before Tina was swept away by the crowd again.

As Julie stepped back, she felt a sense of accomplishment. She had caught Tina’s attention, and that was just the beginning. The thrill of the moment filled her with hope and excitement for what was to come.

Tina didn’t shake Julie’s hand. Instead, she focused intently on Julie’s ruby earrings.

“Where did you get those earrings?” she asked coldly.

“They were a gift from my boyfriend. They’re custom-made Pandarums, so you won’t find another pair like them,” Julie replied, secretly thrilled. “But if you like them, Miss Hummer, I could give them to you.” She thought to herself, “Even the richest girl can’t resist these earrings.”

“Boyfriend?”

Tina’s face darkened. “Is it Matt Laney?”

Tina asked because she had received the exact same earrings from Matt as a birthday gift not long ago.

“Oh! You know Matt too, Miss Hummer? That means we’re friends!” Julie’s eyes sparkled with excitement. She never imagined earrings would bring her this good fortune.

“Who’s your friend? You little brat!”

Tina glared at Julie and slapped her hard across the face.

Smack! The sound echoed in the air.

Julie stood stunned, holding her cheek. “Miss Hummer, why did you hit me?”

“What is your relationship with Matt Laney? You better tell me the truth. If you hide anything from me, you won’t see another sunrise!” Tina’s fierce expression made it clear she was serious.

She wouldn’t let anyone interfere with what was hers.

“Miss Hummer, I think you’re mistaken. Matt and I are just friends, nothing more!” Julie stammered, feeling flustered. She didn’t know what had gone wrong, but it was clear she had upset Tina.

“Would a regular friend give you ruby earrings worth a million dollars? Do you think I’m stupid?” Tina was furious, and her anger was evident.

“It has nothing to do with me, Miss Hummer! These ruby earrings aren’t mine; they belong to my cousin Dahlia! I just borrowed them for a few days!” Realizing she was in a tough spot, Julie decided to tell the truth.

“Dahlia Nicholson?” Tina narrowed her eyes. She remembered that name from when Matt had asked for help in the interrogation room. At the time, she hadn’t thought much about it, but now it seemed there was something suspicious between them.

“That girl! She seduced my man and has the nerve to show up at my birthday party?! Is she trying to provoke me?” Tina’s teeth clenched as anger flashed in her eyes.

“This is all Dahlia Nicholson’s fault, Miss Hummer. I had nothing to do with it. Please let me go!” Julie was terrified and started to sweat.

She began to piece together what was happening. Tina and Matt were obviously a couple, and the earrings were a clear sign that something was going on between Matt and Dahlia.

“Shut up! If you want to stay alive, do what I say!” Tina shouted.

“Just tell me what to do, Miss Hummer. I’ll do my best!” Julie promised, eager to please.

“Put this in Dahlia’s bag.” Tina handed Julie a delicate jewelry box.

“What do you mean, Miss Hummer?” Julie was confused by the request.

“Don’t ask questions! Just do as I say!” Tina snapped.

“Yes, yes!” Julie nodded quickly. She knew she had no choice but to obey.