Chapter Three: Sparkles and Spats

Suddenly, a noisy commotion filled the entrance, causing heads to turn as Layla, stunning in a vibrant red dress, elegantly emerged. The spotlight above her created a beautiful glow around her, highlighting her shiny hair, perfect curves, and sparkling diamond necklace. She walked with such elegance that everyone was entranced by her presence. As Ashton's gaze landed on Layla, a mix of emotions crossed his face as he admired her dress for the night. She completely stunned him with her beauty. Layla had always been stunning. But for the last three years, she'd been laying low, mainly sticking to Ashton without much fuss about her looks. She acted nothing like a typical glamorous socialite, and that's why he hardly ever took her to fancy events. But after their split, Layla seemed to radiate a newfound confidence. Ashton, with a hint of cynicism, figured she was just playing hard to get again. With a dismissive sigh, Ashton pulled Poppy closer as they settled on the couch. He wore an air of arrogance, eyes fixed on Layla, fingers idly tracing Poppy's waist. He was expecting Layla to come over and was ready for her tears and pleas for forgiveness. Yet Layla paid him no mind, striding past to the other side of the room. Ashton's gaze lingered on her in anger. But she seemed oblivious to his presence, treating him like he was as insignificant as the air itself. Ashton let out a breath and quietly murmured something in the ear of the woman snuggled up next to him. Poppy's eyes widened slightly, then she moved closer to him and teased, "What if she gets mad and punches me? She looks pretty badass." Ashton grinned slyly, "She won't dare touch you because you have me here." Poppy seemed to find confidence in his words. She stood up and walked over to Layla, who was deep in conversation with someone, carrying herself with an air of arrogance as if she were not the homewrecker. "Miss Hammond, what a surprise to see you here. I'm so sorry about the trouble at your company. I thought you'd be too preoccupied to socialize in such circumstances." Layla took a sip of her drink and gave Poppy a once-over before coolly responding, "Get out of my way." Poppy froze. She couldn't believe how confident Layla appeared even after being abandoned by her husband. Poppy arched an eyebrow, folded her arms, and retorted, "I have the pleasure of being Mr. Hayes' date tonight. It'd be nice if you could show some respect." Poppy then subtly nestled closer to Ashton. Ashton not only allowed it but also draped his arms around her on the sofa, creating the illusion of a cozy embrace for onlookers. He took on a protective stance. Evidently, he was firmly on Poppy's side in the conflict. Layla appeared lonely and helpless compared with Poppy. The scene grabbed everyone's attention in the room. After all, the clash between the wife and the mistress was a spectacle not to be missed. Just when it seemed like Layla might back down, she surprised everyone by calmly writing a check, jotting down some figures, and tossing it in Poppy's direction. Poppy was taken aback. With a hint of condescension, Layla said, "I've heard you've got a price tag. How much do you charge to spend a night with Mr. Hayes? I'll double it so you can disappear from my sight." Layla's words sent a shockwave through the room, leaving the crowd stunned. Tears brimmed in Poppy's eyes as she turned to Ashton, her voice trembling as she accused, "Mr. Hayes, just look at her! She's humiliating you!" Ashton shoved Poppy away and rose to his feet, feeling unsettled by Layla's calm demeanor. He had hoped she would react with jealousy and protect their relationship, but instead, she displayed fearlessness. This revelation stirred a fiery anger within Ashton, his intense gaze fixed directly on Layla. She raised her head to meet his eyes, showing no hint of the love that once filled them, now replaced by emptiness. Ashton grasped Layla's arm and pulled her aside. "Layla, have you caused enough scene?" Layla dodged from Ashton's touch as if it were repulsive, a look of disgust overtaking her features. "Go away! You're the reason this whole drama started." Ashton paused, feeling the urge to yell but thinking about how it might affect his image. Swallowing his pride, he chose to leave. Meanwhile, Layla fixed the creases on her dress and casually grabbed a glass of wine from a passing server. She observed Ashton storming off in frustration, savoring a sweet taste of vengeance. Nearby, Tristan, who had been an unseen observer, couldn't help but smirk as he witnessed the scene unfold. The longing in his gaze as he looked at Layla revealed his deep-seated desires.