Chapter 2

"Miss Phoebe, the Don said that you should change into another outfit before coming outside for the photos. Everyone is waiting for you."

I stood up and wrapped my shawl tighter around myself.

"This is fine."

The assistant hesitated.

"The Don said you should dress more appropriately. Please come with me and change into another outfit."

Before I could respond, she had already turned around and led the way.

She stopped in front of a room and pushed open the door.

On both sides were rows of haute couture dresses, along with matching jewelry and accessories.

I immediately knew.

This was Alice's private dressing room.

The assistant walked to the very corner and took down a black evening gown.

"The Don asked you to wear this first."

I ran my fingers over the fabric.

This dress had been altered.

Andre remembered my measurements.

Whenever Alice no longer wanted a dress, he always had it adjusted perfectly to fit me.

"You're asking me to wear this dress for the photos?"

I looked at her and let out a laugh.

Before the assistant could answer, Alice suddenly walked in.

"Phoebe, don't blame Don. This is the only dress that happens to fit your size."

"I haven't even worn this dress before, but it was altered to your measurements. If you wear it for the appearance, it will definitely make Don look good."

She held my hand and smiled warmly.

Alice had not only changed her dress, but even her jewelry had been replaced.

Around her neck was the Ocean's Heart gemstone necklace, which had only been mined last month.

"I won't wear it."

My voice was harsh.

Displeasure flashed across Alice's face.

Tears slowly rolled down her cheeks.

"Phoebe, why are you always so heartless?"

Andre rushed in.

His expression was terrifyingly dark.

"Phoebe, don't go too far with your words. Alice only prepared this outfit for you out of kindness."

His voice carried an unquestionable authority.

I glanced at him.

"If she wants to wear it, then let her wear it. I won't."

After saying that, I walked straight past him.

Alice looked even more aggrieved and burst into tears.

Andre chased after me.

He grabbed my wrist.

"Stop"

"It's cold outside!"

I used to love the warmth of his palm.

It made me feel safe.

Alice followed behind and grabbed his arm, reminding him, "Don, this hasn't been cleared up yet. If she goes out like this, how will the reporters cover this engagement ceremony?"

I pulled my hand away.

I laughed at myself for still clinging to that little bit of warmth from him.

Andre frowned and looked at Alice.

"Alice!"

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that."

Alice put on that same pitiful expression again, looking as if she had been wronged.

Unfortunately, I had already heard everything.

Without turning back, I continued walking out.

Andre's voice was harsh as ice behind me.

"Phoebe! Are you sure you want to do this today?!"

I did not answer.

I simply walked out.

When I arrived at the main hall, I found that many people were waiting outside.

They were all waiting for me to take the engagement photos.

When they saw me coming out alone, their faces were filled with surprise.

I even heard some people whispering about the unusual relationship between Andre and his adopted sister.

No wonder they needed me.

That was why Andre had reminded me that it was cold outside.

It was never about the cold.

He was only afraid that if I walked out alone, the rumors would cause trouble for them.

I walked past everyone.

And without hesitation, I chose to go home.