Hailey and Cassidy went way back to their college days, and they were tight as ever.
When Cassidy's dad first suggested she marry into the Cooper family, everyone thought she was hitting the jackpot, destined for a life of luxury and happiness.
But Hailey was the only one worried that Cassidy might lose her freedom and end up miserable.
Luckily, Cassidy's life with the Coopers turned out pretty good, so Hailey could finally relax and wish her the best.
When the news broke about the change in the Cooper family leadership, Hailey had mixed feelings— she was happy for Cassidy but also a bit worried.
She didn't want to bug Cassidy, so she kept her distance and didn't reach out. But when Cassidy invited her to go shopping, Hailey jumped at the chance.
As soon as they met up, Hailey couldn't wait to ask how things were going. "I heard Ashton left you a ton of money?"
Cassidy thought about the billion-dollar inheritance Ashton left her and nodded, sharing some details of Ashton's will with Hailey.
When Hailey heard the amount, her jaw dropped. "Oh my God, Cassidy, you're loaded now! Congrats! With all that cash, you can do whatever you want!"
Then Hailey remembered the Cooper family situation. With Ashton gone and his four unmarried sons remaining, was Cassidy safe with them?
"You're the only woman in the Cooper family now. Aren't you worried they'll mess with you? Did you ask me to go shopping because something bad happened?" Hailey asked, looking concerned.
While both of their families were well-off, but nothing compared to the Coopers. A family that rich had to have its fair share of dangers.
Cassidy considered the current Cooper family dynamics. Declan and Owen were cool with her. Easton protected her only to secure his position, making them temporary allies. Ryder, however, wanted her gone and always gave her the nastiest looks. It felt like being surrounded by wolves; any sign of weakness could get her torn apart.
Hailey watched Cassidy nervously, but Cassidy just smiled and shook her head, keeping her worries to herself.
"Don't worry, I'm safe. They wouldn't dare mess with me. We haven't hung out in forever, so I just wanted to go shopping with you." Cassidy smiled and nudged Hailey's shoulder. "I'm rich now, so I can buy you whatever you want! Let's shop till we drop today!"
Hailey didn't notice anything off about Cassidy and took her at her word. When Cassidy mentioned she was rich, Hailey hugged her with a grin. "Then you're footing the bill today!"
"Deal! I'll cover everything!"
With smiles on their faces, Cassidy and Hailey strolled into the mall. Buzzing with excitement, Hailey picked out clothes and showed them to Cassidy. Pointing to a stunning dress, she exclaimed, "Cassidy, check out this dress! It's so you!"
Cassidy glanced over; the high-end silk dress was simple yet elegant.
"Hey, Hailey, wanna come with me to the Moore family wedding banquet?" Cassidy asked. She wasn't into those fancy events, but having a friend there would make it more bearable.
Hailey, who always enjoyed parties, clutched the dress nervously. "Cassidy, I'd love to go."
"Awesome!" Cassidy felt a wave of relief at the thought of having Hailey with her. She pointed to a vibrant, gorgeous dress and asked, "I think this would look amazing on you. Wanna try it on?"
Hailey nodded eagerly and went to try on the dress. When she stepped out in front of Cassidy, she asked, "How do I look?"
"Perfect! It looks amazing on you!" Cassidy couldn't help but gush, and she bought the dress without a second thought.
When Hailey tried to protest, Cassidy stopped her, saying, "Remember, I'm paying today."
Hailey smiled and kissed Cassidy's cheek. "You're the best!"
Cassidy took Hailey on a shopping spree, buying anything that caught Hailey's eye, not giving her a chance to refuse.
Eventually, Hailey had to stop herself from looking at things for too long, but her interests were obvious, and Cassidy would swoop in to pay.
They ended up with a ton of stuff, and as they passed a jewelry store, Hailey just glanced at it. Cassidy immediately pulled her inside. "Hailey, let's see if there's anything you like. I want to get you a necklace!"
Hailey tried to decline, but Cassidy was already picking out necklaces.
"Hailey, try this one." Cassidy pointed to a stunning necklace with dazzling gems.
Hailey took one look and then put the necklace on Cassidy instead. "I think it suits you better."
Hailey firmly fastened the necklace around Cassidy's neck and made her look in the mirror.
Cassidy's delicate skin made the gems sparkle even more, highlighting her elegance.
"So beautiful!" Hailey exclaimed. "OMG! This necklace is perfect for you!"
"Cassidy? Ashton's wife?" An unfamiliar voice interrupted Hailey's praise.
Hailey and Cassidy exchanged puzzled looks and turned towards the voice.