Everyone gasped.
As it turned out, the drama that unfolded was nothing short of a false accusation. The mere thought of how Josie might have navigated her way out of this convoluted mess had Claudia not made her timely entrance was beyond anyone’s imagination.
“How malicious…”
Gradually, Josie began to piece everything together, standing up more confidently as she did so. It became evident to her that Ava was acting out of a desperate attempt to protect someone at all costs. Prodding for more information from Ava seemed futile.
Josie’s gaze settled on Bethany, noting the worry that was deeply etched into her face. In that moment, clarity dawned upon her.
Claudia said, “Bethany, this unfortunate incident occurred under your watch. Don’t you reckon my daughter is owed a thorough explanation?”
Bethany’s expression was laden with regret as she continuously nodded in acknowledgment. “It truly is our oversight that such a remarkably talented individual had to face this level of public humiliation. Henceforth, in any similar scenarios, and this includes but is not limited to upscale venues, Ava will find herself permanently banned from every establishment within Wavery!”
Upon digesting these words, Ava instinctively recoiled, visibly taken aback.
For a woman of her elevated social standing, this decree served as a harsh reprimand, akin to a bolt of lightning on a clear day. Moving forward, her access to mingle within such esteemed circles would be unequivocally severed!
“Josie, how does this resolution sit with you?”
In response to the query, Josie exchanged a brief look with Claudia before offering a subtle nod of agreement. “That seems fair enough.”
“Someone, escort her out,” came the subsequent command.
Without hesitation, the security guards advanced, taking Ava under their charge. She was visibly pale, her eyes darting desperately around the room and fixating on Josie, her body quivering with each step.
Despite the turmoil, she remained silent about the identity of her accomplice.
The atmosphere had grown still. Josie had acknowledged the Ross family’s act of contrition. As the crowd began to disperse, Claudia escorted Josie away from the rooftop scerie. Claudia’s simple attire and minimalistic makeup did little to mask her inherent allure.
Josie followed behind Claudia, their connection seamless, reflecting a natural bond that seemed predestined.
Larry was with them every step until they reached the hotel’s entrance. Parked along the roadside were two vehicles, one notably with its windows firmly shut.
Josie paused momentarily, Claudia mirroring her actions. “Upon learning of today’s events, Dexter was deeply troubled. He played an instrumental role in aiding us. Without his intervention, our departure today would have been significantly more challenging. You should go,” the latter encouraged.
Josie, with a hint of concern knitting her brows, acknowledged Vivian, “Give me ten minutes, I’ll make it quick.”
And so, under Vivian’s astonished gaze, Josie promptly made her way to the rear seat of the black car.
Settling into the car, her phone emitted a timely buzz. She quickly muted it and looked up, locking eyes with him.
His appearance was striking-thin lips, light eyes, and a pronounced nose, all contributing to a gaze that was both intense and captivating.
Before Josie had the chance to process the moment, the man was already reaching out, gently adjusting a few loose strands of hair from her forehead. “It looks like everything has settled down now,” he remarked, his voice laced with relief.
This sudden closeness made Josie instinctively retract a bit. “How come you’re here with Claudia?”
“I was at the Olsen Residence when Laura called,” he explained, shedding light on his unexpected presence.
That explains it then…
“Then what about Grape?”
“Justin’s taking care of her at home.”
As their conversation dwindled, a reflective silence enveloped the vehicle. Josie could detect the distinct aroma of tobacco emanating from him and modestly lowered her gaze, expressing her gratitude, “Thanks for your help.”
She was seated at an angle, her feet adorned with slender high heels, featuring strings of silver rhinestone tassels that dangled unevenly against her pale ankles. Her attire, a gown, painted her as a vibrant splash of pink, a sight both captivating and elusive.
“Is a simple ‘thank you’ all you have to offer?”
“Huh?”
Before she had time to react, he swiftly grasped her ankle, drawing her closer. Their breaths mingled closely, and Dexter’s voice was soft, almost a whisper, “It fell off.”
