Chapter 184 All Dressed Up for a Late Date?
As twilight descended, Violet found herself in tune with the bustling ambience of the dress studio, working in tandem with the skilled tailors. Their collective efforts bore fruit just as the studio was about to close for the day, resulting in the flawless completion of Loraine’s wedding dress.
To prevent any leaks and to safeguard the anticipation of the final design, Violet shrouded the gown in some black draping, ensuring its safe passage out of the factory without prying eyes stealing a glance.
With all the tasks now completed, Violet promptly contacted Loraine to arrange for the dress's collection. The news delighted Loraine, who immediately sent the family’s chauffeur to retrieve her custom gown. However, the Calvin family’s driver was a good twenty minutes away.
Observing the late hour, the master tailor extended a glass of water towards Violet, suggesting, "Miss Devereux, please, have some water. You may head home now, if you wish."
Violet accepted the water with a gracious smile, shaking her head in polite refusal, "I'll linger here a little longer. I want to ensure the Calvins collect it without any issues."
Her primary concern was avoiding any potential mishaps that could stir up unnecessary drama. For her, leaving a bit later was a small price to pay for the peace of mind. The master tailor admired Violet's dedication and patience, nodding in understanding. "Alright, make yourself comfortable. I have some matters to attend to," he said, leaving Violet to her vigil.
Twenty minutes later, the Calvin family's chauffeur arrived. Violet carefully packaged the wedding dress and handed it over to the driver, thus completing Loraine's order. With a sense of accomplishment, Violet gathered her belongings and left the factory, her heart brimming with the satisfaction of a job well done.
That evening, Violet had an appointment with Arthur, a lawyer recommended by her friend Emily. Wanting to make a good impression, Violet made a brief stop at home to feed her little ones, played with them for a bit, and then got herself ready—washing up, changing clothes, and applying makeup.
Typically, Violet didn't pay much attention to her appearance. Her work attire was simple, and her makeup was minimal. But this time, it was about her mother's affairs, and she needed help. Violet didn't want to appear disheveled or disorganized. She took extra care with her makeup and chose a floral-patterned, off-the-shoulder sundress that fell to her knees. The result was nothing short of angelic.
Hellen, taken aback by her transformation, couldn't help but give her a compliment, "Violet, you should dress up more often. You're so beautiful, and you look stunning like this."
"I'm running an important errand," Violet responded, blushing at Hellen's praise.
"Just be careful out there and come back home early," Hellen advised, aware that Violet was off to meet Emily's lawyer, Arthur. She trusted Violet's judgment but still felt the need to remind her to return home early.
"I will," Violet assured her, brushing her long hair back and preparing to switch into her heels by the entryway.
As she changed her shoes, her son, Henry, scampered over in his slippers, wrapping his tiny arms around her leg and exclaiming, "Mommy, you look pretty."
Henry's speaking skills were exceptional for his age. He'd overheard Hellen's compliment to his mother and quickly learned to replicate it. Violet chuckled at his adorable imitation, ruffled Henry's hair, and said, "You are such a sweet boy, Henry. Mommy has to run an errand, but I'll be back later to spend time with you, okay?"
Reluctant to let go, Henry clung to her, his grip unyielding. Nicole joined him, and the two siblings held onto their mother from each side, making it impossible for her to leave. It took Hellen's intervention, scooping them up, to finally allow Violet to dash downstairs without the little ones crying after her.
With the click-clack of her heels echoing down the hallway, Violet reached the elevator and pressed the button to descend. Once at the ground floor, she strode quickly outside. Emily was supposed to pick her up, but a last-minute snag kept her away. Instead, she texted Violet the address and told her to grab a cab—she'd cover the fare.
Quickening her pace in her heels, Violet was determined not to be late for her first meeting with the lawyer. She was so focused to make the appointment that she didn't notice a man approaching her, smoking a cigarette.
As she briskly walked past him, the smoking man reached out, grabbing her wrist and pulling her towards his broad, firm chest. He exhaled a white ring of smoke to the side before his voice, low and magnetic, teased her, "All dolled up this late? Got a hot date?"
His tone was commanding, almost possessive, as if Violet was his own. Only then did Violet register the man who held her, staring in shock.
'Brady?'