Serendipity's Secret (Melanie) novel Chapter 47

Chapter 47 

The Grayson family still viewed Melanie’s venture into retail as beneath them, and it would take time for their opinions to change. But Melanie wasn’t in a hurry. She planned to take things slow. 

Her shop was strategically located next to several affluent neighborhoods. 

She set large glass windows in the storefront to draw attention to the bustling scene outside, all 

to see the m 

allowing passersby to see the mannequins on display from a distance. 

Such a clothing store was rare in the area, and many young women stopped by to check out the styles offered. 

Even though it was only their first day of business, things were surprisingly busy. 

Julia had originally intended to drop by and offer her congratulations but found herself caught up in the shop’s hustle and bustle. 

She felt awkward leaving when Melanie clearly needed help, so she stayed to assist 

By the afternoon, Melanie felt particularly grateful. “Julia, thank you so much for your help! Don’t you have work? Are you sure staying here won’t interfere with your job?” 

Julia scratched her head bashfully. “I’m not working right now, so helping you out is no problem.” 

After her discharge from the military, Julia had been assigned a job. However, she resigned as it didn’t suit ber. Lately, she had been feeling a bit lost, why Edward had encouraged her to help Melanie. 

Understanding her situation, Melanie decided to pay Julia for her help when they closed the shop. She firmly thought that no one should work for free. Later that day, after school, Sophie rode home with a few friends. As they passed Melanie’s clothing store, they couldn’t help but stop. 

“Who opened this clothing store? That dress inside is beautiful! Sophie squinted, trying to recall where she had seen that dress before. “Let’s go in and check it out,” one of her friends suggested. 

At this point, Sophie hadn’t realized that Melanie was the one behind the store. Intrigued by her friends‘ interest, she followed them inside. 

Melanie was at the counter when they stepped in, busy taking notes and organizing things. 

which was 

Although Melanie and Edward’s wedding wasn’t grand, the people in the neighborhood had at least caught a glimpse of the ceremony. The school girls were astounded when they recognized Melanie as Sophie’s sister–in–law, 

“Sophie, is this place owned by your sister–in–law?” 

Finally, Sophie understood why the dress in the window looked familiar. It was the pink dress Melanie had worn just the day before. 

Initially, Sophie had thought it was somewhat embarrassing for Melanie to run a small boutique, but witnessing her friends fascination shifted her perspective. “Uh–huh,” she replied nonchalantly, not eager to engage with Melanie. 

The other girls began browsing, their eyes wide with admiration for the array of beautiful clothing. “Wow, Melanie’s store has amazing pieces!” one of them exclaimed 

Sophie appeared award, 

momentarily at 

at a loss for words. 

Just the day before, she had criticized Melanie’s taste. It she agreed with her friends now, it would be like slapping herself in the face. 

But if she insisted the clothes were unattractive, she would seem out of touch with the trends. Caught in the dilemma, she remained silent, standing awkwardly among her friends. 

Melanie caught a glimpse of sophie and chose not to dwell on the building tension. Instead, she greeted the girls with a bright smile. “Welcome! Feel free to look