Chapter 113

The grand ballroom shimmered with crystal chandeliers, every surface polished to perfection.

Suddenly, the orchestra's melody cut off mid-note as William Sterling ascended the podium.

All eyes turned toward the stage, sensing the pivotal moment of Sterling Corporation's anniversary gala had arrived.

Though Alexander Sterling held the reins of Sterling Corporation with prestige rivaling Nathan Blackwood's, tonight he remained respectfully in the shadows.

He stood at perfect attention, watching his father with quiet admiration.

"Ladies and gentlemen," William's voice carried across the hushed crowd. "Your presence honors Sterling Corporation's legacy. This success belongs to all who've supported us."

He raised his champagne flute in a toast that was immediately mirrored by every guest.

The truth was obvious - Sterling Corporation's meteoric rise stemmed from the Sterling family's brilliance, not mere luck.

Guests vied for favor, their compliments flowing as freely as the vintage Dom Pérignon.

Alexander stepped forward to refill his father's glass before retreating with practiced grace.

William gave an approving nod before addressing the crowd again.

"Tonight, I must address the rumors surrounding a remarkable woman connected to our corporation - Evelyn Sinclair."

A hush fell over the ballroom. The assembled reporters leaned forward, sensing the bombshell about to drop.

Old Master Blackwood's smug expression faltered. Across the room, Margaret and Sophia Blackwood exchanged knowing glances.

"Where is that disgraceful woman?" Sophia whispered, scanning the crowd unsuccessfully.

Margaret smirked. "Probably escorted out. The Sterlings would never tolerate such scandal."

William's gaze locked onto the Blackwood contingent as he declared, "Evelyn secured Kingsley Tech's landmark deal as our Vice President. Her competence is unquestionable - and her relationship with Alexander isn't what gossip suggests."

The revelation hung in the stunned silence. Even Nathan looked unsettled, his usual composure cracking.

"Allow me to properly introduce this extraordinary woman," William announced, turning toward a side entrance with paternal pride.

The double doors swung open dramatically.

Evelyn emerged like a vision, bathed in golden light. Her flawless makeup accentuated high cheekbones, while cascading waves framed her face with effortless elegance.

The custom Laurent Dubois gown clung to her slender frame, its gray diamonds catching the light with every movement.

The showstopping pink diamond necklace at her throat was rumored to have once belonged to French royalty.

She ascended the stage with regal poise, the slit in her gown revealing designer stilettos worth a small fortune.

Taking her place beside William, Evelyn carried herself with the unshakable confidence of someone born to power.

Camera flashes erupted like fireworks, desperate to capture her breathtaking transformation.

The collective gasp was audible. This radiant powerhouse bore no resemblance to the humiliated divorcee of tabloid lore.

William beamed at his daughter's commanding presence - this was how a Sterling heir should debut in high society.

After a dramatic pause, his voice rang out: "Her last name is Sterling - my cherished daughter, my greatest pride - Evelyn Sterling!"