The interview went exceptionally well. Lisette’s polished look, flawless complexion, and kind manner made her a standout candidate for the sales position at the cosmetics company. She began working that very day. Her new job was located at Century Mall, the largest shopping center in Lincolnville, known for its upscale clientele and heavy foot traffic. Lisette threw herself into the role with enthusiasm, always being the first to arrive and the last to leave. She made it a point to learn about the products, took careful notes, observed her colleagues, and quickly got the hang of things. Within a few days, she was fully adjusted.

The store manager noticed her dedication and was pleased with her performance. One day, after a successful sale, Lisette’s phone rang. “Mr. Jones, I need to take this call,” she said to her manager. Managers often appreciate hardworking employees and tend to be more flexible with them. “Go ahead,” Ken Jones replied. Lisette retreated to the storage room, where she froze upon seeing “Rhea” flashing on her screen. Her smile faltered, replaced by a wave of nervousness. A year earlier, when William proposed, his parents had strongly opposed the marriage. Despite their objections, William’s decision was unwavering. Eventually, his parents had to accept it, but they never truly acknowledged Lisette as their daughter-in-law.

William had been especially protective of her, never demanding that she tend to his parents. Since their initial meeting, Lisette hasn’t seen the Prestons again. Now, with her mother-in-law calling, Lisette felt a surge of anxiety. “Rhea,” Lisette answered, her voice soft and gentle. “I’m at Risorette Restaurant nearby. Get here immediately,” Rhea said sharply. Rhea Preston sounded upset, but being an educated woman, she didn’t raise her voice but ended the call abruptly. Lisette glanced at her phone, debating whether to inform William about the meeting. Given their current situation, she decided against it, pocketing her phone and asking Ken for a brief leave. Ten minutes later, Lisette arrived at the restaurant, where a server escorted her to a private dining room. The room was empty except for Rhea. Lisette approached and greeted her quietly. “Rhea.” Rhea’s eyes scanned Lisette from head to toe, her frown deepening. “Have you forgotten your place?” Rhea had come to handle some business and had decided to visit her son. Instead, she found her daughter-in-law working at a cosmetics counter. When have the Prestons fallen so low that our daughter-in-law had to take such a modest job? Rhea’s displeasure was evident. Lisette stood silent, surprised that Rhea seemed unaware of her divorce from William. Rhea’s patience wore thin. “Are you even listening?” It makes sense that a lousy family like theirs produced such a rude child! Lisette finally snapped out of her shock and attempted to explain. “Rhea, it’s not what you think—” Before she could finish, Rhea interrupted, “Not what I think? I saw it with my own eyes!

Do you want me to catch you in the act before you admit it? “Lisette, I’m telling you, we, the Prestons, cannot endure this embarrassment!” Rhea’s frustration was clear. Her dissatisfaction with Lisette was growing. How could William have chosen such a woman? Fuming, Rhea stood up. “You need to quit this job immediately and go back to being a proper stay-at-home wife. Otherwise, don’t blame me if things get difficult for you!” Lisette’s brow furrowed, and she felt a pang of anxiety. “Rhea, please listen. It’s not as you think.” It was obvious that Rhea didn’t know about the divorce, but since Lisette had already signed the papers, she saw no reason to keep it a secret any longer. However, Rhea seemed convinced that Lisette was just making excuses. Ignoring her, Rhea grabbed her bag and headed for the door. Lisette hurried after her, but as she left the room, she collided with a server carrying a tray of food. The dishes crashed to the floor, spilling onto the floor and onto Lisette herself. The strong, unpleasant smell overwhelmed Lisette, and she couldn’t hold it in, vomiting right there. Hearing the commotion, Rhea turned around and saw Lisette clutching her mouth, clearly ill. Rhea’s expression softened as she rushed over, calling out, “Lisette!”