Chapter: 169

Rachel, with her impeccably maintained appearance, exuded elegance as she settled into the bed beside Alicia.

"What a coincidence," she remarked smoothly. "I've never seen you here before.”

Alicia smiled, sensing the opportunity she had been waiting for.

Plus, it seemed like Rachel liked her, which was an unexpected bonus.

"Mrs. Gray, you have an impressive memory. We've only crossed paths a few times, yet you managed to remember me."

Rachel chuckled softly, her eyes gleaming with a hint of warmth. “How could I forget? Gerry's movie was the talk of the town, and your voice made its theme song unforgettable. I always take notice of beautiful and talented women like you."

Alicia smiled graciously. "You're too kind, Mrs. Gray."

"Are you here by yourself?" Rachel asked, glancing around as though expecting someone to appear.

"Yes."

Rachel's expression shifted subtly, as though lost in a fleeting thought. She didn't press further, though Alicia could sense the woman's curiosity.

To Alicia's surprise, Rachel was far more charming and personable than she had expected-gracious in a way that felt genuine rather than forced.

As they both finished their beauty treatments, thanks to Alicia reaching out, the two got acquainted with each other, turning a "chance" encounter into the beginnings of a budding friendship.

By the time they were ready to leave, Alicia had already taken the initiative to add Rachel on WhatsApp.

Rachel, now in a private room, carefully changed out of her spa attire and began putting on some makeup.

However, today something seemed to unsettle her. Perhaps it was because she was next to a younger face, she took longer than usual, touching up and examining her reflection with an unsatisfied grimace.

“Do you have plans later, Mrs. Gray?" Alicia asked, interrupting her thoughts.

Rachel offered a graceful smile as she applied the finishing touches to her lips. "Yes, my husband is meeting a rather important guest tonight. He's invited me to join them for dinner."

“You must adore your husband."

Rachel's smile faltered ever so slightly as she lowered her gaze, her voice quieter now. "Of course. We've been together for so many years, after all." She left her words hanging, a wistful air settling between them.

Quickly, Rachel shifted the mood, stepping away from the mirror and turning toward Alicia. "I feel like something's off with my look today. Would you mind taking a look and making some touch-up's?"

Alicia hesitated for a brief moment before moving closer. She examined Rachel's appearance.

“Your complexion looks lovely with the white pearls and soft Lipstick,”

Alicia remarked thoughtfully. “But I think it feels a bit too... delicate. You could add a bolder contrast-perhaps some darker jewelry to balance it out and add a bit of edge."

Rachel sighed softly. "I didn't bring any dark jewelry with me today."

Alicia's eyes sparkled with an idea.

The salon had just released a new collection of jewelry.

Without hesitation, she went and bought a set.

Moments later, Alicia returned with a set of sleek, dark-colored jewelry-a bracelet, necklace, and earrings.

With her keen eye for style, she carefully helped Rachel adjust her accessories. The result was striking-though nearly forty, Rachel's new look retained her elegance while adding a touch of boldness.

Rachel looked at herself in the mirror, a satisfied smile curving her Lips.