The Billionaire's True Heiress From Fake Jewel to Real Crown novel Chapter 814

Amelia's factory couldn't withstand scrutiny, and Beatrice knew her own family's foundation wasn't exactly spotless either.

The two girls quickly scurried away as if fleeing a plague.

Watching their panicked retreat, Shirley couldn't suppress a laugh. "Claire, you're untouchable."

Sophia drifted over, handing them both a small plate. "These desserts aren't bad."

Claire and Shirley each took a bite.

"The VIA Grand has a stellar reputation. Their pastry chefs can whip these up in their sleep," Claire noted.

It wasn't her first time tasting it. In the months leading up to her exams, she had practically lived off The VIA Grand's catering, which always included these exact treats.

Edison had personally arranged all those meals.

Claire enjoyed the Peach Mousse—a dessert crafted to look like the actual fruit, but with the rich, velvety texture of ice cream mousse.

They savored their treats in peace, finally free from unwanted interruptions.

Soon, however, Claire noticed another girl nearby doing the exact same thing.

She had a chic bob, large expressive eyes, and a fuller, curvy figure that suited her perfectly.

She appeared a few years older than them, dripping in jewelry that screamed generational wealth.

She was dressed in a piece from SUNNY's recent summer collection.

Shirley tugged at Claire's sleeve. "That's Tabitha James."

"York's new fiancée?" A faint smile touched Claire's lips.

It wasn't a mocking smile. Tabitha seemed like a vibrant woman—honestly, she was far too good for a guy like York.

Tabitha's curves only added to her magnetic charm; she unapologetically owned her figure.

Sensing eyes on her, Tabitha turned toward Claire's group.

Her gaze dropped to the half-eaten Peach Mousse in Claire's hand, and her eyes lit up.

She walked straight over to them. "Are you guys obsessed with the Peach Mousse too?"

"It's my absolute favorite here. The VIA Grand doesn't do takeout for it, so I crash every gala they host just for the dessert table."

Was this girl really that refreshingly straightforward?

"Yeah, the pastries here are incredible," Claire agreed with a nod.

And she thought Claire was undeniably more stunning than Cindy.

York was truly an idiot; his taste in women clearly plummeted with every engagement.

Tabitha had somehow managed to voice her unfiltered internal monologue out loud.

Claire chuckled, genuinely amused.

Tabitha slapped a hand over her mouth. "Whoops. I didn't say that."

"It's fine," Claire replied.

It was a compliment, so she certainly didn't mind.

"But seriously, you're breathtaking. And I heard you top-scored the exams! Being that brilliant and gorgeous... York really took an L breaking off your engagement!"

Claire smiled warmly. "I think so too. Though honestly, I consider it a massive win for me."

Without that engagement, she had the whole world in front of her.

As for York, who cared about him?

"Let's not talk about him." Tabitha clearly had zero interest in discussing York, shifting the topic back to the gala with a grin.