Chapter 376

The air grew thick with tension.

Just a few feet away, the lively party continued, separated by an invisible barrier of discomfort.

Preston Sinclair's disgust was written plainly across his aristocratic features.

Rules were rules, and even his longtime butler would face consequences for breaking them. His voice cut through the silence like a blade.

"Lawrence Whitmore is hardly qualified, regardless of who I choose to work with."

Lawrence's face twisted through several expressions before settling on desperation. He shot a pleading look at the butler.

"Sir—"

The butler hesitated, still attempting to salvage the situation for Lawrence. It galled him that Evelyn Sinclair's sudden appearance had ruined his brother's chances.

"Mr. Sinclair, might I suggest—"

"My daddy already said no! Are you deaf or just stupid?"

Little Oliver's cherubic face scrunched up in irritation.

This butler had always been a nuisance—constantly interfering with Oliver's tutors and friends, spouting self-righteous nonsense.

And now he dared to bring these two creeps to harass his Muse? Oliver vividly remembered how they'd insulted Evelyn in the Sterling Corporation lobby.

The memory made his small hands ball into fists. He tugged sharply on his father's sleeve.

"That butler's the worst! He called Muse a nobody at the entrance! Wouldn't even let her inside!"

Preston's expression darkened dangerously.

Manners were non-negotiable for anyone in his employ. The butler trembled under his employer's hawk-like gaze.

"That's—that's not true! Young Master, you mustn't—"

Oliver blew an angry raspberry, puffing up like an offended kitten. The butler couldn't meet Preston's icy stare.

A cold realization settled in his gut. Ten years of service meant nothing. To Preston Sinclair, he was just another replaceable employee.

"Mr. Sinclair, I only meant—the gown Ms. Sterling wore resembled Madam's—I was concerned—"

Preston's gaze turned murderous at the mention of his late wife. Even Oliver fell silent, watching his father with wide eyes.

With a single gesture, Preston summoned the shadows. Two bodyguards materialized instantly.

"Remove them."

His voice held no emotion as he addressed the ashen-faced butler.

"Your employment is terminated. Be grateful I'm not pursuing legal action. Leave before I change my mind."

The butler opened his mouth to protest, but a gloved hand clamped over it. Within seconds, both he and the Whitmores were being escorted out.

The silence stretched for several heartbeats before Preston's expression softened. Turning to Evelyn, he offered a contrite smile.

"My apologies, Ms. Sterling. You shouldn't have had to witness that."

Evelyn returned his smile gracefully. "It's quite alright. Though, about this dress..."