Chapter 458 Royal Banquet
"I'm sorry, but I must decline," Ashley said with evident discomfort. "You're King Garrett's mother – surely your gala is for nobility only. Someone ordinary like me doesn't belong there."
Sandy's face fell. "Pearl, at my age, no one wants to chat with an old woman at these events. I simply need a companion. If you don't join me, I'll be standing alone watching everyone else enjoy themselves."
The elderly woman's expression turned so forlorn that Ashley felt her resolve weakening.
"But it's really not appropriate for me to attend," Ashley protested. "Perhaps King Garrett could find you a more suitable companion?"
"I don't want anyone else," Sandy insisted, taking Ashley's hand and leading her toward her chambers. "I want you."
"Where are we going?" Ashley asked hesitantly.
"To my room to see my treasured gown collection."
In Sandy's opulent bedchamber, she opened a wardrobe revealing a magnificent dress – low-necked with a cinched waist and voluminous skirt. Despite its vintage design, the classical ball gown remained timeless and elegant.
Ashley experienced a sudden flood of fragmented memories, too fleeting to grasp.
"What do you think, Pearl? Isn't it beautiful?" Sandy asked.
"It's stunning, but rather traditional. Adding some modern elements might make it truly spectacular."
Sandy looked surprised. "You design clothing?"
Ashley tilted her head thoughtfully. "I don't think so... but suddenly I have ideas I'd love to try."
"Then the dress is yours to modify as you wish."
"You'd trust me with your cherished gown? What if I ruin it?"
Sandy smiled. "This gown has been with me for decades. If it's ruined, that's its fate. If you transform it into something wonderful, it's yours to keep – provided you accompany me to the gala."
Though reluctant, Ashley felt an inexplicable, familiar urge to reimagine the dress.
She replied, "I accept. Do you have sewing supplies?"
In Sandy's sewing room, Ashley laid the gown on the table. Inspiration struck immediately as she began working with scissors, needle and thread, her focus intense and practiced.
Sandy watched her work with fascination before quietly slipping away to answer her phone.
"Mom, I'll send someone to collect you for tonight's gala," Garrett said.
"Wonderful. I'm bringing a young woman with me."
"Who?"
"You've met her – the girl who helped me that day. Her name is Pearl."
Pearl! Garrett was stunned.
After their encounter, he'd investigated Pearl's background. Records showed she and Atticus had settled in Gold Valley District six years ago, but their history before that remained untraceable from overseas.
Seeing Pearl always reminded him of Ashley.
"Mom, this is the Countess's birthday celebration. Only royal and noble families are invited. It wouldn't be appropriate for her to attend."
"Nonsense! I'm an old woman who gets ignored at these functions. Having company will make it bearable for me," Sandy insisted. "The matter is settled. Don't let anyone mistreat my guest, or I'll make a scene."
At ninety-nine years old, Sandy was not to be denied. Garrett could only acquiesce.
"Alright then," he sighed, massaging his temples after ending the call.
Garrett turned to his assistant. "Inform everyone that my mother is bringing a commoner to the gala tonight. Anyone who dares slight her will answer to me personally."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Meanwhile, the Countess surveyed the immaculate ballroom with satisfaction while Mary clung affectionately to her arm.
An attendant approached. "My lady, His Highness has instructed that a commoner will be attending tonight's gala and should be treated respectfully."
"A commoner?" The Countess was visibly shocked. "At my exclusive royal gathering?"
"I understand she'll be accompanying King Garrett's mother."
The Countess raised an eyebrow and dismissed the messenger. Once alone with Mary, she asked, "Who could this commoner possibly be?"
Mary contemplated briefly, recalling His Highness Prince Totti's recent association with Angela's mother. Perhaps they had become involved, and this was his discreet way of introducing her to society?
Mary immediately suspected Ashley, her eyes flashing with malice. "Whoever she is, she's clearly overreaching. Attending one gala hardly matters – she'll have stories to tell for a lifetime."
"Indeed," the Countess agreed. "As long as she knows her place, I'll respect His Highness's wishes. But should she forget herself..." She left the threat unfinished, her smile turning cruel.
Mary matched the Countess's wicked smile, thinking to herself, 'Just wait until you arrive, Pearl. I'll make sure you never forget your place.'
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