CHAPTER SIXTY TWO – PARTY GOSSIP

The weeks following the board meeting proved to be a gauntlet of scrutiny and thinly-veiled insults for Kayla. Barbara seemed determined to highlight her "commoner" shortcomings at every turn. It began with the Sutton Museum's annual charity gala, one of the most prestigious events on the city's social calendar. Kayla had been meticulously planning every detail for months, aiming to showcase her talents to Lance's elite circle of associates. But Barbara had other ideas. As soon as Kayla arrived, she was pulled aside by the museum's snobbish event coordinator, Mrs. Pemberton. "Mrs. Storm has some...revisions she'd like to make to the seating arrangements," Mrs. Pemberton sniffed, handing Kayla a revised chart. Kayla's heart sank as she scanned the new layout. All of Storm Enterprises' biggest clients and most influential guests had been moved to a separate area, while Kayla's seating was now at one of the rear tables, out of sight. "I...I don't understand," Kayla stammered. "These