06/15/2026
The luxury store was so bright Monica Hayes could see the insult coming before Vanessa Cole even reached her.
White LED lights reflected off glossy marble floors, gold-trimmed glass cases, and mirrors polished so perfectly they made every customer look richer than they felt. Diamond necklaces glittered under glass. Silk scarves hung like museum pieces. Sales associates stood with careful smiles, pretending not to judge anyone too quickly.
But Vanessa had already judged Monica.
