Chapter 18

Sophia Blackwood grabbed Nathan Blackwood's arm. "Brother, you have to help me!" Her voice was sharp with desperation. "Didn't Evelyn Sinclair steal your money to fund her lover? She's obviously involved with that man!"

Nathan shook her off, his expression darkening. His voice was icy when he finally spoke. "That man is Alexander Sterling from New York City. He's not someone you can afford to cross."

A flicker of doubt crossed his mind. Had their divorce really been just his fault? Or was the entire Blackwood family to blame?

Sophia froze. Though she had never met Alexander Sterling, every woman in high society knew he was the most elusive bachelor in New York—mysterious, powerful, and utterly untouchable.

Countless women would kill to marry him, yet Evelyn was the one by his side? The thought infuriated her. Since her brother refused to back her up, she had no choice but to turn elsewhere. She immediately dialed a number. "Tristan, Evelyn humiliated me. You have to help me."

At Sterling Tower, Evelyn watched as Alexander expertly prepared her coffee, his movements smooth and precise. Just then, her phone buzzed—Dominic Young, CEO of Horizon Media.

"Evelyn, I have inside information. Sophia Blackwood hired someone to tail you discreetly. Do you need assistance handling this?"

Evelyn's lips curved into a faint, indifferent smile. "No, let her play her little game. It'll save me on publicity costs."

After she hung up, Alexander frowned slightly. "Problem?"

"Sophia sent someone to follow me. Let her waste her time." He didn’t seem concerned—such petty schemes were beneath their notice. He handed her the steaming cup. "Careful, it's hot."

Evelyn took it with a grin, inhaling the rich aroma. "Your coffee is still the best. Even better than those overpriced baristas in Paris."

Alexander scoffed, shaking his head. "You're the only one privileged enough to drink it."

Satisfied, Evelyn took a sip before remembering something. "Since I start officially tomorrow, can I bring Isabella along as my assistant for the first few days?"

Alexander shrugged. "Do whatever you want."

Thinking of the way Isabella looked at Alexander, Evelyn quickly texted her. [You're officially hired! Start tomorrow.]

Isabella replied instantly. [Yes, ma'am!]

Isabella Montgomery came from the affluent Montgomery family. When she offered to help Evelyn, her real goal was simple—more time around Alexander.

Evelyn saw right through her but didn’t call her out. After all, she wanted her best friend and brother to get together.

In high spirits, Evelyn left for their girls' night out. The two headed to their favorite spot—Velvet Lounge.

The bar pulsed with energy, the bass thumping through the floor. Neon lights flickered as bodies moved in sync with the music.

Isabella, thrilled about working at Sterling Corp, drank freely, her laughter ringing above the noise. After a few rounds, they hit the dance floor.

Both women were stunning—one fiery and vivacious, the other cool and regal. Heads turned instantly.

Even as her words slurred, Isabella insisted on another drink. Evelyn sighed, squeezing her hand. "I'm going to the restroom. Stay here."

Isabella waved her off with a giggle.

When Evelyn returned minutes later, her blood ran cold.

A hulking man loomed over Isabella, his grip tight around her wrist.

He had noticed them earlier—two beauties dancing alone. Seeing Isabella vulnerable, he’d seized his chance.

He hadn’t expected Evelyn to return so soon.

Their eyes locked.

And hers burned with fury.