The Cherished Wife

Rowena, as quick as ever, spun around to face the shop assistant who had just spoken up. "Sir, you're a real charmer. I have to have this outfit. I'll take it in a size S! Wrap it up for me, please." Rowena was nothing if not spirited. Winter cut in once more, "But I spotted it first."

"Did you pay for it already?" Rowena quirked an eyebrow, flipped through the catalog a bit more, and pointed out several more outfits. "Pack these up for me too. I'm feeling generous today. It's New Year's, after all. I'd better treat myself a little." Winter's expression soured. The outfits Rowena had nonchalantly chosen were the exact ones Emilia's friends had been eyeing.

The shop assistant, spotting a sale, was quick to respond, "I'll get them wrapped up right away. Will you take them all in size S?"

Rowena nodded affirmatively. "Of course. We're super fit, so we'll take your smallest size!" She glanced over at the group of well-to-do ladies behind Winter. "Ladies, you don't have to worry about a size mix-up. But I must say, these styles are pretty hip-you all must be young at heart!"

Teresa burst into giggles, quickly muffled by Noelle's hand. However, even Noelle's lips curled into a sneaky smile. The clerk, eager to finish the transaction, asked, "Will that be card or cash, miss?"

Rowena fished out her card, feeling a twinge of regret. Saint Di's fashion was pretty expensive, and she was only splurging to show

Noelle intercepted her. With a warm smile, Noelle presented her own card to the clerk. "I'll take this! I promised you guys a New

card. He opened his mouth to speak, but Noelle's head shake

chest, the clerk complied. "Anything else I can

impressed by the power of Noelle's mysterious card. They knew it had to

attitude suddenly change and Noelle get the clothes she wanted, Winter felt a sting of jealousy. She the face of Saint Di, yet she felt overshadowed by Noelle. That did

clothes aren't exactly cheap, and with what you make..." Winter trailed off, her eyes