Revenge is Best Served After Reborn (James)

Sandy might not totally get the tangled drama of Devonport's elite, but she knows Elodie's been gunning for Sophie lately. This trip abroad? All courtesy of Elodie.

Sophie stepped up, invitation in hand, and said, "Since the Burke family and Sandy have teamed up, let's see what Ms. Elodie wants with us this time."

By evening, the area outside the Regent Hotel was buzzing with excitement. Everyone was aware that Reeves International was Devonport's new rising star. Plus, the buzz was that Elodie might just inherit the Burke family empire, especially now that Reeves International had partnered with them.

Sure, the Aryan scandal had shaken things up a bit for Reeves International, but a partnership with Burke International? That would smooth things over in no time. With Burke International's backing, Aryan's mess was practically nothing.

Jenna stepped out of the car, eyes wide as she took in the scene outside the Regent Hotel. "Wow," she said, "the Reeves family really knows how to throw a party. I've never seen such a grand event at the Regent Hotel before."

Devonport had only a few top-tier hotels, but not just anyone could host a banquet at the Regent.

Sophie followed Jenna out, adjusting her aqua-blue dress. "How's my dress?" she asked.

Jenna gave it a once-over, rubbed her chin, and said, "It's nice, but it looks familiar. Did you get it from that beach market last week?"

"Is it that dress that was marked down from nine hundred, then five hundred, to just ninety-nine?"

Adler, who had just stepped out, dropped his jaw. "Ms. Sophie, you've got serious style, making such an affordable dress look this chic. You have to give me some fashion tips!"

Sophie sighed. "I didn't want to wear this, but I didn't have any other options."

They'd gone straight to the Burke

Estate after landing, with no time for a the dress she bought at the

Own. Sophie had to grab the

beach.

Even though it was only ninety-nine bucks, the quality was surprisingly good.

"Her wardrobe's twice the size of my bedroom and she says she has nothing to wear," Adler muttered.

Jenna added, "You really don't get it. Those gowns can only be worn once at a banquet, or you'll get laughed at."

"Really? No wonder I never see socialites in the same dress twice. They're all one-time wears!"

"Exactly! We might wear them on regular days, but never repeat for public events."

Jenna had no patience for further

en. She extended her hand

see

on, escort me in. I

what all the fuss is abante1?

"Your wish is my command, Your Highness!" Adler said, taking her arm as they walked inside.

Colby offered his hand to Sophie, smiling. "My princess, may I escort you?"

Sophie placed her hand in Colby's, and for a moment, they were the picture-perfect couple outside the banquet hall.

Inside,

when ea was greeting guests è saw Sophie and Colbynet

her. Her smile waned slightly.

"Who invited them?"