It became abundantly clear why influential individuals coveted the distinction of being referred to as supreme VIPs here.
The lifestyle of the affluent was truly beyond their wildest imaginations.
But why had Lilah and her companions entered now?
Lilah turned her attention to Evelyn and said, "I apologize. If you had informed me beforehand, I might have added your names to the guest list. But it's too late at this point. You can observe from the doorway and then make your departure."
Lilah's composed tone struck Evelyn like a figurative slap across the face.
What a bitch!
Nevertheless, Evelyn had weathered her share of experiences and swiftly adjusted her mood. "Miss Phillips, I must confess my envy.
Your sales may not be extraordinary, yet you possess the audacity to have Mr. Harris reserve a diamond room for you. Alas, our approach differs. We prefer to remain grounded. Thus, I extend my best wishes to you and your designers for a delightful meal in Mr. Harris' exclusive chamber..."
The Xavier Jewelers' crowd swiftly withdrew their feelings of jealousy toward Lilah. A voice in their midst mumbled, "Tsk, tsk, tsk.
She lacks competence and must rely on a man. Furthermore, she's quite ostentatious. It's almost as if she fears that others might remain unaware of her relationship with Gerard. I can't fathom what he sees in her."
Envy no longer consumed them.
They had achieved a commendable sixty million dollars independently.
Their designers exuded an air of self-assuredness.
Phoebe could bear it no longer. “Do you believe everyone possesses your level of conceit? I regret to inform you that our sales far surpass yours."
"Really now? How much did you rake in today?" asked a Xaver Jewelers designer, his voice dripping with disdain.
Phoebe shot back, her voice icy, “The numbers will be out shortly. Feel free to turn green.”
Without a word, Lilah ushered her crew into the diamond room for a meal, uninterested in the petty exchange.
The moment the diamond room's door shut, a bitter taste lingered in the air.
"A pack of fools," Katie remarked, her tone biting. "What irks me are those women who lean on men for everything."
“Exactly. Lilah's headed for a fall. Mr. Harris marrying her? Unthinkable."
Their words were steeped in thinly veiled spite as they walked away.
The Horizon Hotel had been a dream for many, with its steep entry fee of a grand per head, a place most of them hadn't set foot in before.
Evelyn had managed to book a VIP room, aiming to lift spirits and broaden horizons. Everyone was initially happy with that.
Yet, transitioning from the diamond to the VIP room, they were met with disappointment at its smaller size, dimming their earlier excitement.