True to her word to Nancy, Paige hadn't contacted Dylan again. She threw herself into work and finally finished the design drafts. The client tried to squeeze out a few more freebies, but this time she held firm—no more revisions within this budget. Any changes would cost extra.
The moment money came up, the client backed off and grudgingly paid the balance.
But not without a parting shot: "It's not like you're some famous designer. Your rates are ridiculous—practically luxury-brand prices."
Paige didn't lose her temper. She patiently explained that this was standard pricing for bespoke jewelry. No matter how she framed it, the client still thought she was overcharging. The woman lingered at the studio, haggling and complaining, before finally leaving.
The studio wasn't Paige's alone—she'd started it with a friend who was now home with a newborn and rarely came in. So lately, Paige had been running everything herself.
That evening, she had a dinner engagement organized by Cara Chavez, a former client. Normally, Paige avoided these things whenever possible. She wasn't built for networking. But Mrs. Chavez had been so insistent that refusing felt impossible.
She had no idea Nancy would be there.
The moment Nancy spotted Paige, a contemptuous smile curled her lips. "Cousin, did you invite her?"
"I did! Let me introduce everyone—this is Paige. She's a jewelry designer. She made a set for my wedding."
"Oh, that set. I thought it looked familiar." Nancy pointed at Paige in front of everyone. "Didn't you copy some big brand for my cousin's pieces? The design looks awfully similar."
Paige hadn't come looking for a fight. If she'd known Nancy would be here, she would have stayed home. Technically, this was their first time meeting face-to-face—they'd never crossed paths before. Not once.
"That can't be right." Mrs. Chavez's expression wavered with uncertainty. "Paige has a decent reputation. She wouldn't do something like that... would she?"
Despite her words, doubt had already crept into the way she looked at Paige.
Paige's fingers tightened at her sides. "Mrs. Chavez, the set I designed for you wasn't copied from anyone. I don't do that."
Someone pulled out photos, and the whispers began.
"No wonder it seemed so familiar—like I'd seen it somewhere. Now that I look, the style really is too similar."
"These days, any nobody calls herself a designer. Cara, I think you got scammed. This so-called designer is clearly second-rate. You should've gone with an established brand—at least there's accountability."
Sharp, judgmental gazes fixed on Paige. They believed Nancy without question. Paige didn't stand a chance.
She knew Nancy was doing this deliberately—stirring up trouble for the sake of it. "If you think I copied a brand, feel free to provide evidence. Or have it verified by a professional agency."
There was no point staying. Paige turned to Mrs. Chavez. "I'm sorry this evening took such an unpleasant turn. If you have concerns, you're welcome to get an official assessment or take legal action. If I'm guilty, I'll accept the consequences. But if I'm not, I won't admit to something I didn't do."
"Again, my apologies. I'll see myself out."
She turned and walked away. She'd barely made it out the door when Nancy followed, intercepting her in the corridor.
"Paige. Did I say you could leave?"
Paige stopped and fixed her with a cold stare. "Is there something else?"
"That's your attitude?"
"What attitude would you prefer?"
"Shouldn't you at least explain yourself to my cousin first?"
Paige studied her. Flawless makeup. Beautiful. Every hair in place. Skin smooth as porcelain. The clothes and jewelry she wore cost more than most people earned in months. She practically glowed.
Looking at her, it was easy to see why men couldn't forget Nancy Kaufman.
And yet...
Paige's lips curved. A slow, unexpected smile.
"Are you jealous of me?"
"Jealous of what?" Nancy almost laughed at the absurdity.
