Tabitha's POV
Andrea and I went shopping together, and the feeling was subtle.
This was the first time in my life that I went shopping with my mother-in-law.
I witnessed what it meant to be a local magnate. With a closet full of unworn clothes back home, Andrea casually waved her hand and bought yet another stack without a second thought.
I was not sure if I used to spend money extravagantly in the past, but now seeing these prices, I really felt the pinch.
Andrea, however, stayed composed. "Of course, I'm going to spend the money. If I don't, should I save it for my lover to spend? Don't fret. The Black Thorn Pack is far from being short on funds."
I awkwardly smiled and then heard Andrea add, "The Salat family is not short on funds either."
I wasn't privy to the Salat family's history, but I had heard whispers that Andrea, despite everything, had been determined to marry Ambrose in the past. She turned down her childhood sweetheart, which greatly upset the Alpha of the Salat family.
The Salat family had tried to prevent her from getting married, but it was of no use.
After Andrea got married, it was revealed that her life within the Black Thorn Pack had been far from idyllic. The Salat family, concerned for her well-being, made multiple attempts to take her away.
Andrea was so fixated on Ambrose back then, always thinking he'd come to his senses and turn back. She kept on messing around, and in the end, she wore out even her family's patience.
After Andrea made another attempt to commit suicide by cutting her wrists, the Salat family felt utterly disheartened. They decided to give up on her and sever all connections with her.
Because of this, Derek and I were not close to the members of the Salat family either.
I turned to look at Andrea, and when she mentioned the Salat family, I saw a hint of sadness in her eyes.
I couldn't help but ask, "Andrea, have you ever regretted it?"
"How could I not regret it? I abandoned my family for a man, came alone from a foreign land, and was determined to marry him no matter what. Now it all seems like a dream, a hazy and confused twenty-odd years, how ridiculous it all seems." Andrea was a woman of strong will. Even in regret, she still wore a smile on her lips, pretending to be strong.
I took her arm gently and patted it softly, offering her comfort in the tenderest way.
"Don't worry," Andrea said with a reassuring smile, her eyes meeting mine with a tender warmth. "I'm not scared of death, so why would I be afraid of living?" She paused, her gaze steady. "You should also buy some things for yourself. Don't be concerned about the cost. Despite all I've been through, the one thing I don't lack is money."
Although the Salat family had distanced themselves from Andrea, it was a decision made by the elders, who were deeply disappointed in their daughter. They hoped that by creating this distance, they could prompt her to reconsider and return home.
Financially, Andrea was not shortchanged. Her parents and brothers made sure to deposit money into her account every month, ensuring she was well provided for.
The Black Thorn Pack, feeling indebted to her, also bestowed upon Andrea various dividends annually. Over the course of more than two decades, these amounts accumulated into a substantial fortune.
Andrea sat in the VIP reception room, watching as the models walked out one by one, trying on haute couture.
"Did you have any favorites?"
I wasn't particularly keen on dressing up. "It's all good, but we've got plenty of clothes back home, so it's not necessary to buy more."
"Go ahead, you can pick as many as you'd like today. There's no limit."
I supported my forehead and said, "Then let's go with this one."
Andrea waved her hand confidently and said, "I'll take them all."
The salesperson was smiling from ear to ear, while I felt a bit helpless.
"Miss, come with me to take measurements, please."
"Okay," I said, turning to Andrea. "Andrea, I'm going to get measured now."
Andrea gave a casual wave of her hand. "Sure, go ahead. I'll take a look at the jewelry store next door."
My heart sank. Another big chunk of money was about to go out the window.
Deep in thought, I wasn't watching where I was going and bumped into someone, sending the clothes she was carrying flying out of her hands.
"Sorry." We both simultaneously crouched down.
"It's okay," the woman said, her voice ringing out clear and calm. As our eyes met, she seemed to freeze, clearly taken aback by my face.
My wolf also sensed my surprise in my consciousness.
I gazed back at her, puzzled by her reaction. Why was she so surprised by my face? Did she know me?