26: know how to play their game

LILLIAN

Unlike back in Santorini, Xavier didn’t restrict me from going out once we were back to the states.

But it still felt like I was imprisoned because he wouldn’t let me go out alone without a security detail tailing behind me and reporting every single thing I do back to him. Plus, he placed me on a curfew.

Like I was some sort of child.

But I had no other choice but to settle. It was either that or I’d stay at home and staying at home wasn’t the best decision because I’d just wallow in self pity and fill my heart with so much negativity.

Besides, it didn’t help that he was always leaving his black card for me to use however I pleased. I didn’t care how much I hated him, I was making out his cards to give myself even the tiniest bit of fulfillment.

Which is why I was out right now, strutting down the sidewalk of Madison Avenue with a bodyguard behind me as I made my way to the Ralph Lauren boutique.

The moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere changed, the buzz of the city outside replaced by the refined elegance of the store. A well-dressed attendant came to me with a warm smile stretched at the corners of her lips.

“Good afternoon, ma’am. Welcome to Ralph Lauren. How can I assist you today?”

“I’m looking for some new outfits,” I said, glancing around at the displays.

“Of course. Do you have any particular styles in mind, or would you like some recommendations?”

“A mix of both would be great,” I replied.

“Excellent,” she said, her smile widening. “We have some beautiful new arrivals that I think you’ll love. Please follow me.”

She led me through the store to a private VIP section, a luxurious space with plush seating and soft lighting.

“Please, have a seat. I’ll bring out a selection for you to try on,” she said, gesturing to a comfortable chair. As I sat down, another attendant appeared with a tray, offering me a glass of champagne.

“Would you care for a glass while you wait?”

“Yes, please,” I said, accepting the flute with a small grateful smile.

Heck, I could use a drink.

The first attendant returned shortly, carrying an array of outfits.

“Here we have some stunning pieces from our latest collection,” she explained, hanging the clothes on a nearby rack. “We have elegant evening gowns, chic casual wear, and some classic Ralph Lauren staples. I’ll be here to assist you with anything you need.”

I took a sip of champagne, savoring the bubbles as I looked over the selection. “These are perfect,” I said, standing up to inspect a beautiful navy blue dress. “Can I start with this one?”

“Absolutely,” the attendant said, guiding me to the fitting room. “I’ll be right here if you need any help.”

As I slipped into the navy blue dress, admiring its elegant fit and the way it hugged my curves, I heard my name being called from behind me.

"Lillian? Is that you?"

I turned around to see Mara, Chloe, and Rita standing just a couple of feet away, their expressions a mix of shock and curiosity, and I fought the urge to scoff.

Thought I’d never see these bitches again.

After my family's bankruptcy, these so-called friends completely vanished from my life, distancing themselves as everything went downhill. Seeing them here now, I could only imagine the wheels turning in their heads because I’m sure they didn’t expect me to show my face out again, let alone in a place as luxurious as this.

Dumb lot, I thought, rolling my eyes inwardly.

But on the outside, I plastered a smirk on my lips.

"Well, well, if it isn't the golden trio," I greeted them, my voice dripping with feigned warmth.

"Lillian, darling, it's been ages!" Mara exclaimed, stepping forward with an air of practiced concern. "How have you been?"

"Oh, you know, just living life," I replied, keeping my tone light. "And what about you all? Still up to the same old antics, I suppose?"

Chloe chimed in, her voice tinged with false sweetness. "We were just talking about you the other day, wondering how you were holding up."

Yeah right!

"That's so sweet of you," I said, raising an eyebrow. "I didn't realize I was still on your radar."

Rita, always the quiet follower, nodded along. "It's great to see you looking so... well," she added, her eyes scanning the dress.

"Thank you, Rita. It's amazing what a little retail therapy can do," I said, taking a sip of my champagne. "What brings you ladies here?"

"We're just doing a bit of shopping ourselves," Mara said, glancing around. "It's so good to see you out and about. We were worried about you."

"Worried?" I repeated, my smirk widening. "I appreciate the concern, but as you can see, I'm doing just fine." I waved them away dismissively.

Chloe’s eyes landed on my hand. Her gaze fixed on the huge diamond on my wedding ring, and she couldn’t hide her excitement.

“Lillian, is that a wedding ring?” Chloe gasped. “It’s stunning!”

Mara’s eyes narrowed as she caught sight of the ring as well.
“So, the rumors are true? You really married Xavier Santos?” she asked, her tone dripping with condescension.

I met her gaze squarely. “Yes, I did.”

Mara’s lips curled into a mocking smile. “That’s interesting. I distinctly remember you saying you’d never marry someone like Xavier Santos.”

“People change their minds, Mara.” I shrugged nonchalantly.

“Oh, so you’re now a trophy wife?” Mara remarked, her voice laced with faux concern.

I smiled sweetly, looking her straight in the eye. “Better a trophy wife than a side piece,” I said, the jab hitting its mark.

Mara’s face tightened, because I just reminder her of her sham relationship with a serial cheat we all knew only settled for her because she would take his bullshit.

Now she will think twice before trying to talk down at me.

There was a tense silence, and then Chloe cleared her throat, trying to smooth things over.

“Well, it’s been lovely seeing you, Lillian. We should really catch up properly sometime. Maybe lunch?"

"I'll think about it," I replied noncommittally. "But for now, I have some dresses to try on."

"Of course," Mara said, her smile tight. "Enjoy your shopping, Lillian."

As they turned to leave, I watched them go, feeling a weird mixture of satisfaction and irritation. They could feign concern all they wanted, but I knew better.

I’ve always known better but this encounter only confirmed what I already knew. I was right not to have trusted any of them from the beginning.

But I knew how to play their game and I knew how to play it well.