Independence

“Coming.” Miranda had gone to the restroom earlier. When she came out, she saw Natalie waving to her from inside the store.

Evelyn was taken aback. Following Natalie’s gaze, she saw a familiar face.

It was none other than Miranda!

Naturally, Ingrid also saw her.

Miranda was wearing light makeup, a camel trench coat, and brown suede boots. Her hair was casually pinned up with a clip, giving her a breezy and relaxed appearance. Miranda was dressed for comfort and exuded a laid–back atmosphere.

“Mrs. Jefferson.” Miranda walked over to Natalie and linked her arm with hers naturally. “Have you been. waiting long? I’m sorry about that.”

She didn’t even spare Evelyn and Ingrid a glance, completely ignoring their presence.

Evelyn was reminded of how Miranda had decisively broken things off, yet her son couldn’t stop thinking about her and even wanted to get back together. The thought made Evelyn fume with anger!

Ingrid was perceptive enough to notice the tension. She poured a cup of tea and offered it to Evelyn. Mrs. Johnson, you must be tired after shopping for a while. Have some water to quench your thirst.”

Evelyn laughed and said, “Oh, Ingy, you’re so thoughtful. Not only are you beautiful, but you’re also considerate. Unlike some people who don’t even have basic manners.”

Natalie caught the veiled insult and smiled slightly. “Mrs. Johnson, who is this?” She glanced at Ingrid.” Aren’t you going to introduce us?”

Evelyn was caught off–guard. Although Ingrid was currently carrying Hansel’s child, she had no official status. At best, she could be considered as his girlfriend. To put it bluntly, she was his mistress.

How could Evelyn introduce Ingrid to others?

If Natalie were to spread the word that she was out shopping with her son’s mistress, how could she continue to mingle in the social circle of wealthy wives?

These women were obsessed with the legitimacy of heirs. If they found out that she was supporting her son’s mistress, who was carrying a son born out of wedlock, her reputation would be ruined.

Ingrid’s eyes were filled with anticipation.

What she cared about most was having an official status in the family. Hansel refused to acknowledge her, but she had worked hard to win Evelyn over and spent a lot of money on her today. Surely, she would get Evelyn’s acknowledgment, right?

But the next second, Evelyn replied, “She’s a daughter of my friend. She’s keeping me company while I shop.”

Ingrid’s smile froze.

Natalie responded lightly, “Oh, I thought she was your future daughter–in–law.

“How could that be? Hansel still hasn’t started dating anyone.” Evelyn forced a laugh.

Natalie didn’t continue the conversation and turned to Miranda. “Mimi, you have a good eye. Will you help me put together a few outfits?”

“Sure,” Miranda agreed. It wasn’t the first time she accompanied Natalie shopping, so Miranda knew what styles she liked and what suited her.

As Miranda left to pick out clothes, Natalie suddenly remarked, “Miranda is so well–behaved and sensible. She’s also beautiful and highly educated. Any man would be incredibly fortunate to marry her.”

After saying that, she cast a brief glance at Ingrid. Did they really think the people in their circle were blind? The scandal involving the Johnson family’s heir had already spread widely.

Evelyn wanted to keep things under wraps, but Natalie was determined not to let her succeed.

her

She continued. “That said, I still have to say that young women nowadays should know how to take care of themselves. No matter how beautiful one is, a pregnancy out of wedlock isn’t going to cover up moral flaws.”

Evelyn’s smile became strained, yet she had no words to retort. Meanwhile, Ingrid’s face turned pale. Her out–of–wedlock pregnancy was indeed a glaring flaw, not to mention her lack of credentials in terms of education.

At least Miranda had graduated from Bedford College with a degree, and she was now a postgraduate student. Ingrid was only a student from the Institute of Technology and couldn’t compare to Miranda atConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

all.

However, she couldn’t swallow her pride without saying a word! Her eyes flickered when she saw the sales assistant bringing some clothes over for Evelyn.

Ingrid stepped forward with a smile and said, “Let me take those.