Chapter 6

One of the guests let out a snicker at the sight of the scarf. "Seriously? Who gives a handmade scarf these days?" "Look at that cheap yarn. If Mr. Bennett wears it, he'll probably break out in hives," someone added. Another voice chimed in, "Who even is she? How did she get in here dressed like that?" Ashley's face went pale at the remarks. Instinctively, she took a step back. Meanwhile, Dominic's expression darkened. Without a word, he picked up the scarf, wrapped it around his neck in front of everyone, and declared, "I like it." His voice wasn't loud, but it was enough to hush the entire room. Then, he added, "I value something handmade far more than an expensive gift." As soon as those words left his mouth, he reached for the limited-edition watch Eleanor had given him. "This might be expensive, but there's not a shred of sincerity in it," he said icily. With that, Dominic tossed it into the trash. The sound of it hitting the bottom echoed through the room. For a moment, silence hung heavy in the air. Then, murmurs began to rise like a wave. "Mr. Bennett's right! A handmade gift is more meaningful!" "There's nothing special about the watch, but that scarf has such character. Look at the stitching!" "She's clearly talented!" Eleanor, on the other hand, stood frozen to the spot. Her body felt numb, as if the blood had drained from her limbs. She had spent three months traveling from one boutique to another across several countries, comparing dozens of styles before finally settling on that watch. And now, Dominic had thrown it away like it meant nothing, just to defend Ashley. Looking back, she realized this wasn't the first time. Dominic would skip important meetings to be with Ashley, but he never remembered Eleanor's birthday. He'd stay up all night to care for Ashley when she was ill, yet hadn't even called when Eleanor was running a high fever. He had once flown across the world for Ashley on a whim, but somehow, he never had time to sit down for a meal with Eleanor. Time and again, Dominic had chosen Ashley without hesitation. Just like now, when he discarded Eleanor's gift without so much as a second thought. Eleanor brushed her fingers lightly over her chest. The heart that had once beat so wildly for him now lay quiet. So, this was what it felt like when love ran out. The butterflies, the hopes, and the ache of longing had been chipped away. Bit by bit, every time he chose Ashley over her. Eleanor wouldn't let herself grieve for him anymore. There was nothing left to mourn, after all. By then, every gaze in the ballroom had turned to Ashley. Only moments ago, those same guests had ridiculed her for looking out of place. Now, they were flocking to her, scrambling to gain her favor. Eleanor remained in the corner. Her lips curved into a faint, wry smile at that sight. This was how the elite played their games. One glance from Dominic, and the entire room shifted direction. Maybe it was better this way. Once the divorce was finalized, he'd likely bring Ashley into the Bennett family anyway. Tonight was just his way of setting the stage. … As the evening drew to a close, guests slowly began to file out of the ballroom. Eleanor stood at the door, seeing them off one by one. Her smile remained poised, as if she were still the impeccable Mrs. Bennett. Only when the last guest had gone did she allow herself a quiet breath. But the moment she turned, she spotted Dominic and Ashley standing by the entrance. Outside, the rain came down in sheets. As a cold, wet gust of wind swept into the room, Ashley shivered and sneezed. Dominic's brow furrowed. He then shrugged off his jacket and draped it over her shoulders. "I'm still cold…" Ashley muttered, trembling slightly. Dominic's gaze flicked around the room before landing on Eleanor. She was wearing a beige cashmere shawl, its soft fibers catching the light with a faint sheen. "Give Ashley your shawl," he ordered. At those words, the color drained from Eleanor's face, and her fingers tensed. "My grandmother—" "I know your late grandmother made it herself," Dominic interrupted. "Ashley's just borrowing it. Do you really have to be so petty?"