Selena purposely said frustratedly, “I should honestly get my parents to tell Uncle Garrett and the others off. How could they do this to you?”
“Thanks, Selena.” Ellen felt revolted in her heart. She knew for a fact that Selena was putting on an act, yet she was forced to play along with her. What she was experiencing now was utterly discomforting for her.
“President Presgrave, have some tea.” Selena stood up and took the teapot to fill Jared’s teacup. “Thank you,” he replied in a low voice.
Compared to Selena, Ellen was naturally not as adept at interacting with others. After Selena took a seat, she lifted her cup. “President Presgrave, I’d like to propose a toast.”
He lifted his teacup slightly to toast her. Instantly, she beamed widely and took over the role of the host instead. “President Presgrave, I’m so impressed by your achievements. You’re tasked to run such a major company at a young age. You must be outstanding!”
Meanwhile, Ellen sat by the side and remained silent. She secretly felt dejected and resigned. Before she knew it, she accidentally choked on her tea while out of focus.
“Uhuk. She coughed twice, and Selenal slapped her on the back quite roughly. Though she appeared to be gentle, she exerted huge force on Ellen. “Are you alright, Ellie?”
Jared turned to look at Ellen with worry. “Slow down.”
She lifted her head to look at him before turning to Selena and noticing the smug smile on her face that was only comprehensible to herself.
Throughout dinner, Selena was the one who practically dominated the conversation as she came up with various topics to chat about with Jared. She showed off nearly everything that she was well-versed in.
As for Ellen, she became the audience there. Compared to Selena’s impressive upbringing, Ellen’s upbringing was pretty much not worth mentioning.
Jared had been well brought up since he was young; although he did not enjoy the conversation with Selena, he did not reveal the slightest hint of displeasure. He merely focused on studying Ellen’s emotions and took note of her awkward yet polite countenance.
However, Selena remained unaware that her actions had triggered the displeasure of the two, On the contrary, she was annoyed that dinner ended too soon.
As soon as Ellen put down her utensils, Jared followed her action and asked, “How was dinner? Are you full?”
“Yes! I’m stuffed to the brim,” Ellen replied with a smile.
Subsequently, Selena put down her fork and parroted. “I’m stuffed too.”
“I’ll foot the bill, then.” After Ellen said that, she grabbed her bag and got up. Yet, she was told upon arriving at the counter that the bill had been paid.
Stunned, she turned around to look toward their dining table. At that instance, Jared had his eyes on her and beamed widely. She was slightly embarrassed as she walked over and asked, “Why did you pay? I told you this was my treat.”
“You can do that next time.” He rose to his feet.
At that point, Selena turned to shoot a jealous look at Ellen. What? President Presgrave is setting up another date with her?!
“Okay, then. You’re not allowed to foot the bill beforehand next time,” Ellen instructed with a smile, “Sure. Let’s go. I’ll send you home.” He was ready to actualize his words.
Hearing that, Selena immediately bit her lips and asked brazenly, “President Presgrave, could I hitch a ride home too? I hailed a cab to get here, so I didn’t drive today.”
“I’m sorry, but I came in a sports car, so a third person would not be able to fit inside.” Jared rejected her.
Selena knew well that there was another row of seats in a sports car, but she did not pursue it since he had said so. Suddenly, she recalled that Ellen’s house was nearer than hers, so she turned to Ellen and proposed. “Ellie, could you please let President Presgrave send me home? You should take a cab home.”
That was despicable of Selena as she knew that Ellen was subservient and easy to convince, so she went ahead and demanded brazenly.
Before Ellen had the chance to reply, Jared interjected, “Ellen’s house is located in a much more secluded area, so why don’t you catch a cab home, Miss Aguirre?” After he said that, he turned to Ellen and insisted. “Let’s go.”
“Bye, Selena. We’ll head off first.” Ellen bade farewell to her cousin.
With that, Selena stood awkwardly at the same spot and stomped her feet secretly. She was undeniably annoyed. Exactly in what aspect am I worse than Ellen, huh? I’m considered a beauty in terms of looks, and I’ve got a great figure too. Besides, I carry myself way more elegantly than her! Why is Jared only drawn to her? Why hasn’t he noticed my outstanding qualities?
