Chapter 195

The countdown to Isabella's wedding had begun—just fourteen days left.

Lately, Evelyn had been working nonstop, barely catching her breath. She wasn't just adjusting the wedding plans to Isabella's preferences—she was overseeing every detail, from venue decorations to reviewing contracts, budgets, and staffing. Some days, she only managed three hours of sleep.

But she thrived under pressure. The busier she was, the more alive she felt, especially when success was within reach.

After a morning meeting, Evelyn sat in her office, flipping through documents while absently nibbling on a sandwich.

Nathaniel walked in, frowning at the sight. "Ms. Evelyn, you shouldn't work while eating. It's terrible for digestion."

"No choice," she replied without looking up. "I've got an event this afternoon."

"You're booked solid today? I thought you might have some free time."

"Free time?" She scoffed, taking a sip of coffee. "Let's talk about that after the wedding. Right now, I don't have the luxury."

She set her cup down. "Any updates on Victoria and Seraphina?"

"Nothing yet," Nathaniel said. "Do you think they've given up? With everything in motion, they might see no opening."

Evelyn smirked, remembering Alexander's warning. "Stay alert. Victoria clawed her way into this project—she won't back down easily."

A knock interrupted them.

An assistant entered, carrying an elegant white gift box.

"Ms. Evelyn, the pastries you requested from the kitchen are ready, packaged as instructed."

"Thank you. Just leave them there."

Once the assistant left, Nathaniel opened the box, revealing delicate rose-shaped apple tarts. He smiled, recalling how meticulously Evelyn had prepared them.

"We should get going soon," she said. "Go get ready."

That afternoon, Alexander returned to his office after a meeting.

"Mr. Kingsley, there's a jewelry exhibition today. We received an invitation last week. Isabella will be there—shouldn't we attend?"

Before Gordon could finish, Alexander dismissed the idea. "No."

"Are you sure?" Gordon hesitated. "Our reputation took a hit when Isabella chose The Regal Palace over us. If we skip this event, the press will speculate. They're already spinning stories, saying we're avoiding it out of jealousy."

"Victoria can handle it. She's in charge of the Isabella project now."

Alexander's tone was icy. "Birds of a feather flock together. She loves these kinds of events."

"But... Mrs. Sinclair just arrived at the venue."

Alexander's gaze sharpened.

"Get my suit ready. And prepare the car."

Gordon hid a smile. Only when Evelyn was involved did Alexander drop his indifference.

This year’s Aurora Adornments showcase was held at the Elmsworth Convention Center, drawing fashion elites and A-list celebrities. The glamour rivaled an awards ceremony, with Isabella Sinclair as the undeniable star—both the event’s headliner and Aurora’s brand ambassador.

Victoria and Seraphina, as daughters of prominent families, easily secured coveted invitations.

They strutted down the red carpet, lingering far too long for the photographers’ patience.

"If they don’t move soon, I’m deleting every shot," one reporter muttered.

"They think they’re the main event? Pathetic."

Victoria and Seraphina finally entered, only to find the media swarming around Isabella and the designers—not them.

"Are they blind?" Victoria seethed. "I could ruin their careers with one call!"

Seraphina sneered. "If you had actual influence, they’d be falling over themselves for you."

Victoria shot back with saccharine venom. "Oh, darling, you’re the 'Belle of Elmsworth'—yet no one cares. Should I summon some reporters for you?"

Seraphina flushed. "I prefer dignity over desperation."

Their bickering halted when murmurs erupted behind them.

"It’s Evelyn Sinclair!"

"She didn’t even walk the carpet—how did she get in so fast?"

"Unlike some trust-fund brats, she actually has talent."

The reporters rushed past, nearly knocking Victoria and Seraphina over in their haste.

"Watch where you’re going!" Victoria snapped.

But the media only had eyes for Evelyn.

"Ms. Sinclair! You secured Isabella’s wedding over Abernathy Group. How do you feel?"

Evelyn smiled gracefully. "First, I’m honored by Isabella’s trust. Second, Abernathy Hotel remains an industry leader. This competition doesn’t define our relationship."

Her humility won over the crowd.

"Evelyn’s incredible! So poised!"

"Unlike those entitled socialites."

Seraphina trembled with rage. Then she noticed Evelyn’s jewelry—gold rose earrings with ruby accents and a matching ruby pendant.

Victoria gaped, green with envy.

But Seraphina’s eyes narrowed.

A plan formed in her mind.