The crowd shared uncertain looks. Their whispers blended into a soft hum of speculation. Virginia arched a brow as she surveyed the group. Her expression was composed and sincere, showing no sign of deceit. The woman who had been the most vocal earlier stepped forward with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. "Are you really part of the Daves family?" she questioned, her tone sharp as her gaze scrutinized Virginia from head to toe. Her inspection was thorough, as if trying to uncover a single inconsistency in Virginia's demeanor. Virginia's lips curved into a faint, amused smile. "Of course I am," she said confidently. It's often said that habitual liars can no longer distinguish truth from their own fabrications. Over time, the boundary between reality and falsehood becomes a blur. At that moment, Virginia exuded a sense of superiority, her words carrying a tinge of arrogance, as though she truly belonged to the prestigious Daves family. "Do you doubt me?" she asked, her large, expressive eyes locking onto the woman's. Her gaze wasn't just inquisitive—it was boldly appraising. The woman hesitated, momentarily unnerved by Virginia's unflinching stare. An inexplicable unease crept over her, but she straightened, determined not to show any weakness. Clearing her throat, she crossed her arms and replied with a scoff, "Why should I believe you? Just because you say you're a Daves doesn't mean it's true." Her tone hardened, "I'm Ms. Mintz from Kreshill. Do you think I'm that gullible? If you're lying, you'll regret it." The Mintzes? Virginia, unfamiliar with Kreshill's power players, only knew the Daves family's influence in the pharmaceutical field. She had never heard of the Mintz and certainly didn't care to guess their standing. Her lack of knowledge made her bold. Virginia dismissed the woman's warning with ease, her demeanor as confident as ever. "You're right," she admitted with a thoughtful nod. "Words alone don't mean much." "But with so many distinguished guests at this banquet, who would dare to lie in front of such a crowd?" she reasoned confidently. "If I were to tell a lie here, wouldn't everyone immediately label me a fraud? Who would associate with me after that? My reputation would be ruined." Besides, with her strikingly unforgettable looks, one glance was all it took for people to remember her.The more Virginia spoke, the more assured she became, her tone growing steadier with each word. "There's no reason for me to take such a big risk just to tell a lie, don't you think?" Her reasoning silenced the group. Gradually, her argument began to sway the onlookers. Some nodded subtly, convinced that Virginia's audacity might stem from authenticity. If she truly were a member of the Daves family, gaining her favor could prove advantageous. Even in the worst-case scenario, if this woman was lying and wasn't actually part of the Daves family, flattering her wouldn't cost them anything. After weighing the situation, it seemed there was no real downside. They might as well seize the opportunity now and leave a favorable impression on the Daves family. Erin took the lead, raising her glass with a gracious smile. "I see. My apologies for earlier. I hope you'll forgive me, Ms. Dolton," she said warmly. Encouraged by her gesture, others followed suit, lifting their glasses toward Virginia. Within moments, nearly everyone had softened, offering her friendly smiles—everyone except Alicia. Alicia's face darkened. "You're all so quick to change sides. Opportunists, every one of you!" Virginia raised an eyebrow, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Ms. Mintz, why speak like that? We're just making friends here. What's all this talk about being opportunistic?" Erin and Alice had never gotten along, often clashing over their differing ways. Seeing Alice make things difficult for Virginia now, Erin didn't hesitate to step in and speak up. "Ms. Mintz," she said, her voice laced with disapproval, "there's no need for such cutting remarks. We're simply making friends here. Why the sharp tone?" It was no secret in Kreshill that Alicia had a sharp tongue and an even sharper desire for social dominance. Now, with Virginia commanding the room's attention, her jealousy was palpable. Erin turned back to Virginia with a composed smile. "Don't let her bother you. Ms. Mintz often speaks her mind, sometimes too bluntly. I hope you won't take any offense." Virginia returned her smile, a picture of understanding. Meanwhile, she observed the tension between the two women, noting their pointed remarks and fiery exchanges. It was clear they had a long-standing rivalry. Neighbors who can't agree lose out to a third party. Their bickering was an opportunity for her to come out ahead. "Who are you to lecture me?" Alicia snapped, her voice rising. "I'll say whatever I please. You don't get to control me."Erin, never one to back down, shot back, "I wouldn't dare try to control someone as important as you, Ms. Mintz. "But don't you think your behavior today—so loud and overbearing—might reach the Deans? Imagine what they'd think of you then." Alicia's feelings for Keith were well known to everyone in the Kreshill. Coming from a prominent family, Keith was not only wealthy but also strikingly handsome, the kind of man that made every woman in the city swoon. Alicia was certainly no different. Still, in recent years, Keith had become a bit of a mystery. For reasons no one could explain, he had spent most of his time away in Halton and rarely came to the Kreshill. Yet, none of that was particularly important to Alicia. What truly mattered was her single-minded determination to marry him. If Keith ever saw how stubborn and domineering she had become, she feared he would never look at her the same way again. "You—!" Sure enough, Alicia's temper flared the moment she was challenged. "You have no right to bring up Keith!" Alicia snapped, her voice trembling with fury. "And why not?" Erin shot back, clearly enjoying the confrontation. The argument escalated quickly, their voices rising in volume and intensity. Addison, who had just entered with a glass of wine, paused at the scene. She shook her head, both amused and exasperated. Even in his absence, Keith managed to stir trouble. Scanning the group, her eyes landed on a familiar figure. Virginia? Her expression shifted to one of complicated curiosity. Virginia, standing at the center of the brewing storm, realized the need to step in. If Lance heard about this, she would face serious consequences. As she approached, Alicia, still seething, shoved her aside. Virginia stumbled, her balance faltering as she braced for a fall. "Ah!" she gasped, eyes squeezing shut. Before she hit the ground, a steady pair of hands caught her."Ms. Hamilton?" Virginia looked up to find Georgina supporting her. But there was no time for thanks. Virginia quickly steadied herself and turned to diffuse the heated argument. Calming Erin and Alicia was now the priority. If the situation escalated further, it could draw attention from Lance and the consequences would be imaginable. Moreover, the bigger the situation, the more likely it was to draw unwanted attention. If the event organizers got involved, her lie would be exposed to the public.