Chapter 231: Clara Whitmore Had Just Stepped Out of the Restroom

"She's here." Clara Whitmore had just stepped out of the restroom when Miriam Caldwell waved at her.

Catherine Holloway froze.

Following Miriam's gaze, she saw a familiar face.

Clara Whitmore!

Paige Lawson spotted her too.

Today, Clara wore light makeup with a beige trench coat and brown suede boots. Her hair was casually pinned up with a hair claw.

She exuded a relaxed, effortless elegance, like a graceful feline.

"Mrs. Caldwell." Clara linked arms with Miriam. "Have you been waiting long?"

She completely ignored Catherine and Paige.

Catherine thought of how her son still pined for her, and fury ignited in her chest.

Paige seized the moment to hand Catherine a teacup. "Auntie, have some water."

Catherine beamed. "Our Paige is so thoughtful. Unlike some people who lack basic manners."

Miriam arched a brow. "And this is...?" She glanced at Paige.

Catherine hesitated.

The baby in Paige's belly belonged to the Holloway family, but she had no legitimate status.

How could she introduce her?

If word got out that she'd been shopping with her son's mistress, how could she ever face her social circle again?

Paige watched her expectantly.

What she cared about most was recognition.

After spending so much today to please Catherine, surely she deserved some acknowledgment?

"The child of a friend," Catherine said with a strained smile.

Paige's smile stiffened.

Miriam let out a knowing "Oh." "I thought she might be the future Mrs. Holloway."

"Grant isn't seeing anyone," Catherine quickly denied.

Miriam turned to Clara. "Help me pick out some outfits?"

"Of course." Clara moved to browse the racks with practiced ease.

Miriam sighed pointedly. "Someone will be lucky to marry a girl like Clara."

Her eyes flicked to Paige. "Young women should have self-respect. An unplanned pregnancy tarnishes even the prettiest face."

Catherine's expression darkened.

Paige clenched her fists.

She couldn't match Clara's education, and now she didn't even have a title.

A sales associate approached with garments.

Paige suddenly stepped forward. "Let me take those."