Chapter 22
The skies over Norland cleared to a bright, cloudless blue after the thunderstorm.
In the parking garage of the city’s largest shopping mall, the driver carefully opened the back door and shielded the opening with his hand.
Yasmine stepped out of the car first, then reached over to help Sabrina out.
By then, Sabrina’s baby bump was already showing. Most women at this stage would be in loose maternity wear, but not her. She preferred outfits that made her belly stand out even more.
Despite being barely past her first trimester, she already looked four or five months along.
As she got out, she smiled at Yasmine, the corner of her eyes creasing in a show of flattery. “Yasmine, you’re spoiling me. I told you we didn’t have to come to such an expensive mall. Everything here is overpriced, but you brought me anyway.”
Sabrina might have said that, but deep down, she was pleased to be there.
Yasmine managed most of the Ashford family’s finances. While Caleb and Conner had both worked in the family business and had plenty to spend, Caleb was never one for extravagance, much less luxury brands.
To hide her true nature, Sabrina had forced herself to pretend she had no desire for the finer things. But keeping up that act was wearing her out. After all, she craved a life of luxury, with limited–edition designer bags on her arm and afternoons spent having tea with her social circle.
Yasmine’s gaze fixed on Sabrina’s belly, her smile brimming with joy. “Silly girl, who else is going to treat you well if I don’t? Let’s take my precious grandson shopping.
“The doctor’s right. A happy mother means a healthy baby. All I want is for you to feel happy every single
day,”
So, hand in hand, Yasmine and Sabrina headed for the elevator with two bodyguards following closely
behind.
It was obvious the Ashfords adored their unborn grandson. They were so protective of him that they were afraid the slightest thing might go wrong.
As they stepped out of the underground parking garage onto the first floor, Sabrina made a beeline for
Hermès,
She moved so quickly she nearly stirred up a breeze, but Yasmine pulled her back after just a few steps.
“Sabrina, slow down. You’re walking so fast you’re making me nervous.”
Sabrina eased her pace, turned with a smile, and looped her arm through Yasmine’s. “I’m just in a good mood, Yasmine. My feet move faster when I’m happy. Don’t worry.”
Yasmine smiled back and steered Sabrina toward Chanel. “I heard they’ve got some new bags perfect for
Chapter 22
young women like you. I’ll get you something nice here.”
2/2
Sabrina’s expression darkened for an instant. Then, it shifted again before Yasmine could notice.” Yasmine, I’m not that young anymore. Most of Chanel’s products are for young women. I’m about to be a mother, and it’s really not for me.”
Chanel pieces went for ten or 20 grand at most–a pittance that barely impressed Sabrina. The limited Hermès collection, though, was nearly impossible to get even with a million dollars.
Sabrina wasn’t clueless, and neither was Yasmine. So, Yasmine found an excuse to brush Sabrina off.” These days, it’s all about staying young. You, on the other hand, are trying to make yourself look mature.
Caleb doesn’t like women who seem too mature.”
Sabrina clenched her jaw, quiet frustration simmering within her.
True enough, Caleb had never been into over–the–top luxury. For now, keeping both Caleb’s affection and
Yasmine’s favor mattered most.
“You’re right, Yasmine. I’m young at heart, and Chanel works for me too.”