Chapter 6 As If She Were Squandering My Money

Virginia was well aware that Lance was married. For the past three years, his wife, Addison, had remained by his side. Since he never mentioned her, she deemed it inappropriate to bring it up herself. Instead, she relied on the household staff for insights. Her curiosity piqued, she wanted to see what this stand-in looked like and how closely she resembled her! Francesca, eager to win favor with someone so close to Lance, eagerly answered, "Mrs. Johnston doesn't often take pictures, but don't fret; while she shares some similarities with you, she's not as beautiful." Francesca beamed, hoping to charm Virginia and secure her position within the Johnstons' household. Virginia felt her cheeks flush at the compliment, even though Francesca noticed her mixed feelings. After all, could a mere imitation ever truly compare to the original? Still, if she bore a resemblance to Virginia, she couldn't be unattractive—Virginia certainly had her looks. "Well, Ms. Daves must be quite a beauty, then." Virginia graciously accepted Francesca's praise. "Francesca, I just returned from abroad, and I've noticed my apartment is lacking quite a few essentials. Could you take me shopping tomorrow? "And please get rid of this blanket," she added, her clear, innocent eyes sparkling, yet a closer look revealed an unmistakable distaste. The next morning, Virginia arrived at an upscale boutique in a Rolls-Royce, stepping out of the car with a beaming smile. Lance had entrusted her with a generous sum of money, and she planned to indulge herself while replenishing her apartment. She had long dreamed of visiting this luxurious store, but the steep prices had always held her back. Just as she was about to enter, a figure of refined elegance swept past her. The moment the staff spotted the newcomer, they flocked to her, exclaiming, "Ms. Daves, welcome! We have so many new items; you're sure to find something that catches your eye." Addison offered a slight nod, casually browsing through the selection while the staff hovered around her, completely oblivious to the other person standing at the entrance. Virginia fought to contain her frustration at being overlooked, her expression darkening as she observed the woman receiving so much attention. Who is this wealthy person that had everyone so captivated? This boutique belonged to a world-renowned designer, where only the elite could shop. Even prestigious customers wouldn't receive such polite treatment from the staff. She studied the woman from head to toe, taking in her eyes, nose, and lips. It was a familiar visage! The resemblance to Virginia was striking—about 60 percent alike! A daring thought crossed her mind. "Is that Ms. Daves?" Virginia turned to ask. Francesca quickly spotted Addison. Not wanting to contradict Virginia, she nodded. "Yes, that is indeed Ms. Daves." Virginia narrowed her eyes. "Does Ms. Daves usually spend money so freely?" She's so extravagant! Though she is on the verge of divorcing Lance and being cast aside, she still holds the title of Mrs. Johnston. Her grandfather lay in a hospital bed, and instead of attending to him, she's here, carelessly spending money? Noticing Virginia's shift in mood, Francesca quickly aligned herself with her thoughts. "Absolutely. Mr. Johnston always emphasizes the importance of frugality, yet Ms. Daves seems entirely unaware of that. But after all, she is Mrs. Johnston, and we, as servants, wouldn't dare speak ill of her." Virginia's anger grew. For someone to spend lavishly in a place where the staff treated her with such reverence indicated she was likely squandering a considerable amount of money! She, a pretender, is recklessly spending the Johnstons' fortune. Everything she spends belongs to the Johnstons and will eventually be mine! It's practically as if she were squandering my money! Virginia was determined to discover just how much this woman could blow in a single day on the Johnstons' dime. After making numerous purchases at the boutique, Addison felt fantastic and decided to explore some properties. Keith had mentioned that Pendomium Heights was quite impressive, so she drove away from the mall toward that upscale area. Meanwhile, Virginia, sitting in her car, watched as Addison passed by in a Maybach. She could hardly contain her frustration, forcing herself to say, "Stay close." She's even cruising in such an extravagant vehicle! As her car slowly tailed Addison's Maybach, Virginia's heart sank as they arrived at the sales office for the Pendomium Heights villas. These homes are priced astronomically high! A wave of dizziness washed over Virginia.