Laura paused, momentarily caught off guard.

The days had flown by, and she had nearly forgotten about this appointment.

Regaining her composure, she instructed, "Ask them to wait in the reception room, and prepare two cups of coffee. I'll be there shortly."

Her assistant promptly headed off to carry out the instructions.

Laura took a moment to finish up her tasks at hand and gather her emotions before heading to the reception room.

She knew a meeting like this was inevitable, and she prepared herself for the encounter.

Upon entering, she saw the wedding dress already displayed on a hanger.

Vanessa and Edwin were seated together, resembling a picture of a newlywed couple. Vanessa's smile broadened as Laura walked in.

“Laura, you're here! I've just seen the dress, and it's stunning!"

Laura responded with a restrained smile, “Miss Smith, I'm glad you appreciate the design."

Vanessa, leaning into Edwin, playfully chided, “Laura, you're being too formal! Edwin mentioned you're like brother and sister, so that'll make me your sister-in-law. You should just call me Vanessa!"

Laura found herself unable to comply with such familiarity.

It wasn't just about formality.

It was a matter of emotional strength, which she felt she lacked in Vanessa's assertive presence.

Finally, gathering her composure, Laura responded to Vanessa's earlier comment.

“That's very generous of Mr. Evans. However, we must acknowledge that people differ in status and worth. Not everyone can reach the heights that Mr. Evans has."

Vanessa, unrelenting, asked directly, “And do you think I am worthy of him?"

Laura, maintaining her professional demeanor, replied, “A match made in heaven."

She then shifted the conversation back to business.

"Shall we try on the wedding dress? Any necessary alterations can be made within a week to ensure no delay for your special day."