Chapter 4

The hug lasted only a few seconds.

Serena let go, her flawless smile still intact. She lifted her hand as if to gently fix Claire's slightly tousled hair, all sisterly affection on the surface. But her eyes lingered deliberately on the loose fabric around Claire's waist.

Then she stepped back just a bit and, in a voice that sounded innocently curious, said, "Claire, your dress… is it a bit loose? I hope it's not uncomfortable"

The whispering around them grew louder.

"Real heiresses wear this season's couture. She couldn't even get a proper-fitting dress…"

"See? A fake's always a fake.Wearing stolen things doesn't make you the real deal."

The words floated through the air like invisible pins, pricking at Claire from every direction.

But she stood tall, back straight, expression calm.

She met Serena's eyes—and caught the flicker of satisfaction hiding behind that polished smile.

Encouraged by the murmurs, Serena turned to Nelson and added with a light pout, "Nelson, why did you pick that dress for her? It doesn't fit and…it's not flattering."

Everyone's gaze turned to Nelson.

He stood there, his expression unreadable.

He gave Claire a glance.

She stood calmly, eyes lowered slightly, her fingers adjusting the fabric again.

For reasons he couldn't explain, something in him stirred—irritation, maybe. Or guilt.

He looked away and replied evenly, "It was a last-minute thing, didn't get to check sizing."

"It's a brand-new design from the label—I figured it'd be fine."

The gossip around them suddenly quieted.

It was obvious Nelson was shutting Serena down. He wasn't joining in on shaming Claire.

Serena's smile faltered for a heartbeat.

She hadn't expected that.

Nelson always cared about her feelings. He never stood up for Claire before.

Her fingers curled slightly at her side. She forced another smile, voice light. "Ah, I see."

"Next time, Nelson, you better double-check. I'd hate for Claire to feel bad."

Nelson didn't respond.

His Adam's apple moved slightly as he let out a quiet "Mm."

Serena felt a wave of frustration rise in her chest.

She clenched her teeth, quickly adjusted her expression, and turned to Claire with a smile, slipping her arm through hers.

This time, Claire didn't manage to dodge.

"Claire, maybe you should go change?" Serena said warmly. "There's a few dresses in your room—some I haven't even worn. Nelson gave me a bunch, so I'm sure one will fit you better."

Claire finally looked up at her.

She wasn't sure what Serena was playing at, but she didn't have the energy for it. Not tonight.

"Alright," Claire replied gently without hesitation. "If it bothers you that much, I suppose I should."

She pulled her arm back and headed upstairs.

"I'll go with you."

Nelson's voice came from behind, unexpected.

Claire paused, surprised. She turned slightly and caught the flash of resentment in Serena's eyes.

Nelson didn't seem to notice—or maybe he just didn't care.

He stepped forward, clearly intending to go with Claire.

"Nelson!" Serena quickly called out, sounding hurt. "What about my birthday gift?"

She looked straight at him, eyes full of anticipation.

Nelson stopped, his brow twitching slightly as he turned to her.

Claire felt that old sense of absurdity creeping in again.

She lifted her gaze. "Mr. Cooper, You know how girls can be when they're upset. You'd better go."

"If you're holding the dress, you might have trouble walking," Nelson said.

"I'll manage. No need to trouble you," Claire replied, her voice light.

In the end, he didn't follow.