"Don't worry, Mom," Anthea said, wrapping her arm around Carole's, "she doesn't scare me."
Yet, Carole couldn't shake off her concern.
High society was a complex web of alliances and rivalries. She feared Anthea might be taken advantage of.
Anthea reassured her, "Mom, I've grown up in those circles. Trust me, I know how to handle myself. Besides, this party's a big deal for me. I can't miss it."
Hearing her daughter's confidence, Carole reluctantly gave in, "Alright, just make sure you keep your phone handy. If anything feels off, you call me right away."
"I will," Anthea nodded, reassuringly.
The day of the party arrived quickly.
Anthea, dressed to the nines, stepped out to the lobby of their apartment building and saw the Morris family's limo already waiting.
Rebecca, her gown concealed under a down jacket, stood outside waiting, "Anthea, you made it."
With the Christmas around the corner and it being Audrey's birthday bash, Anthea had chosen a burgundy dress. It was a simple design that seemed casual but somehow, she made it look effortlessly chic and international.
Rebecca frowned subtly.
Anthea was always pushing the envelope with her fashion risks.
In such chilly weather, she didn't even bother with a coat! How was she not freezing to death?
If there was a free ride on offer, Anthea wasn't one to turn it down. She strode forward confidently and settled into the car, calling out to Rebecca, “We can head out now.”
Rebecca was momentarily speechless. Why was she playing the host?
But this wasn't the time to spar with Anthea.
Rebecca slid into the car and instructed the driver to proceed, then turned to Anthea with feigned concern, "Aren't you cold, dressed like that?"
Anthea offered a light smile, "Doesn't Ms. Morris know about thermostatic dresses?"
"Thermostatic dresses?" Rebecca's brow furrowed.
That explained Anthea's composure. It was high-tech fashion.
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