Chapter 26

Alice took a steadying breath, determined not to let Milla get under her skin. "I don't need your advice on affordability, thank you. I know what I can and cannot afford." The tension escalated, creating an invisible battlefield in the chic boutique. Alice and Milla locked eyes, each refusing to yield. "So let's see if you can afford it or not," Milla said to Alice and looked at the shop manager. "Tell her the price" The shop manager immediately nodded. Milla watched with a smug expression as the shop manager relayed the cost. The shop manager hesitated for a moment but then proceeded to announce the dress's price, a figure that left Alice visibly stunned. "It's $10000" The realization struck her like a heavy blow – she couldn't afford even a fraction of the amount. Milla chuckled triumphantly. "Well, it seems this dress is meant for those who can appreciate its true value." Alice's mind raced, grappling with the humiliation of being unable to afford something she desired. Milla, enjoy