The Kiss that Sparked it All

“In the bustling world of the service industry, it’s a given that you’ll cross paths with a few oddballs throughout the year. I had grown accustomed to it. If you’re not interested in getting dolled up, I kindly ask you to make your exit. I have other patrons to attend to.

Daisy must have invited you in with the best of intentions, not for you to throw a wrench in the works,” said the stylist, her smile unwavering, which only served to unsettle Imogen.

Imogen slapped the back of Madeline’s hand in a sharp, sudden gesture. “You think you’re still at home, don’t you? I’ve warned you about overstepping your bounds.”

Then, turning back, she offered an apologetic grin. “I’m terribly sorry about that. My daughter here has been a bit spoiled by me, hence the temper. Please don’t take it to heart. She’s just overly eager to look stunning for tonight’s gala. Plus, there’s been quite the buzz about Talon’s handiwork, so she’s got her heart set on having him in charge. Of course, we trust you completely! After all, you are Daisy’s personal stylist, and I know full well you wouldn’t be in that position without some serious talent.”

Madeline stood behind her mother, the picture of frustration. Upon reflection, her earlier comments had indeed been a slight to Daisy.

Today, she would have to make do with this stylist handling her makeup.

It was a shame, really.

Regina didn’t seem to realize her own place; how could she be fit for Talon’s touch?

Each stylist at Talon’s studio had studied abroad, honing their unique aesthetic and skills, That was why, when faced with the likes of Imogen and Madeline, they exuded such confidence, unshaken by any provocations.

After the session, both Imogen and Madeline were quite pleased despite their earlier reservations. If this was the level of a junior artist, they could only imagine what Talon himself could do with Regina.

They left Regina behind and climbed into their car, Imogen still fretting and admonishing Madeline, “Haven’t I told you to keep that temper of yours in check when we’re out? You act as if you’re still under the Tanner roof. Rumors of your behavior could tarnish your reputation.”

“Mom, you’re Mrs. Tanner now. Can’t you show a little spine? You’re too nice, always yielding to the other ladies, making it seem like you’re their servant. You’re their equal, after all. Just like with Daisy earlier, you didn’t have to grovel!”

Imogen sighed. “I may seem their equal now, but you don’t have grandparents to back your up. How can you compare with them? My climb to this point was full of struggle, and you have no idea how hard I worked to earn this status. That’s why I sent you to piano and cello lessons – the same ones their children take. I want you to be indistinguishable from those wealthy kids, inside and out.

So, darling, you must always be mindful of your actions to maintain the image we’ve worked so hard to build!”

Hearing her mother’s efforts were for her sake, Madeline was moved and leaned against her shoulder. “Mom, I knew you loved me more than anyone else in the world. Don’t worry, I’ll make you proud. I’ll at least surpass that woman’s daughter!”

“That’s the spirit. But how could you not surpass Regina? You’re my daughter, after all. Look at her now – she doesn’t even resemble a lady. Dressed in rags, gallivanting about – your father might not say it, but he’s far from pleased.”

Imogen’s words were sharp as she criticized Regina. The resentment for that woman and her daughter ran deep. Why should they be born into privilege while she had to claw her way to what they took for

granted?

Now, her daughter had finally risen to her level, but Regina still had the safety net of her mother’s family’s wealth. Imogen knew she could never let her guard down.Nôvel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.