Chapter 138: The danger in the restroom
Bella’s jaw tightened, her grip on the plate of pastry growing firmer as she fought to keep her composure. She reminded her to stay calm, but every instinct in her body screamed for her to lash out, to defend herself.
Her pride was wounded, and the sting of Gina’s words cut deep. She knew she couldn’t leave without responding. Straightening her posture, she lifted her chin defiantly, meeting Gina’s gaze with unwavering resolve.
"I’m exactly where I need to be. And nothing you say will change the fact that my husband loves me."
Gina’s scoff was sharp and dismissive. "Love? Do you really believe that? Don’t confuse his gratitude with love. We’ve grown up together, and I know him better than anyone. He pities you, that’s all. He is mine, and eventually, he’ll come back to me."
Bella felt a surge of amusement at Gina’s delusion. "You’ve known him all your life, and yet you never won his heart. That’s truly sad."
The words hit their mark, and the fury in Gina’s eyes was instant and fierce. Her controlled demeanor crumbled, replaced by a burning rage.
"You little—" She reached for the nearest plate on the buffet table, snatching up a delicate pastry topped with whipped cream and fresh berries. The creamy filling and bright red berries stained the fabric, leaving a messy, sticky trail in their wake.
Bella stood frozen for a moment, shock washing over her as she looked down at the ruined dress.
Gina’s face was a mix of satisfaction and contempt as she stepped back, her hand still stained with cream. "Now you look like the mess you really are," she spat.
Instead of crumbling under the humiliation, Bella slowly raised her head, her eyes locking onto Gina’s with a fierce, cold fury. With deliberate movements, she wiped the cream off her dress with a napkin, her hands trembling slightly but her resolve unshaken.