Chapter 47

Hailey's cheeks flushed a delicate pink. She clearly reveled in the attention as her colleagues fawned over her. She basked in the glow of being the center of everyone's admiration, glancing smugly at Alexia with a subtle but deliberate air of superiority. Alexia's expression remained calm, showing no hint of emotion. Watching Hailey flaunt herself like a peacock spreading its feathers was exhausting. She could only imagine how much energy it took Hailey to keep up the charade. The atmosphere at the table was lively, filled with chatter and laughter. Before they knew it, the meal was over. Ash, with his cheeks flushed from the wine, leaned back in his chair with a satisfied sigh. "I've never eaten such an extravagant meal before. Hailey, you really went all out tonight." Hailey's face lit up with pride, and she gave him a sweet smile. "I'm glad you enjoyed it, Mr. Ford. Next time, it's on me again. Excuse me, we're ready to settle the bill." A server walked in with the check and