Chapter 408

The trio blinked in disbelief.

Had they really just seen who they thought they saw?

Isabella was the first to break the stunned silence. "Sophia Blackwood has been missing for months, and she's been right here under our noses this whole time? How did no one recognize her?"

Evelyn narrowed her eyes, equally surprised.

Though Sophia's forced smile and stiff posture as she knelt to help a customer with their shoes were painfully obvious, she did look healthier than before.

It was just... jarring.

No one could have predicted that the once-arrogant heiress would end up working as a retail clerk.

How could Nathan Blackwood allow his sister to stoop to this?

Natalie whispered, "Should we go say something?"

Evelyn shook her head, but Isabella was already dragging them forward.

"Absolutely."

Sophia finished with her customer and immediately bowed to greet the new arrivals.

When she looked up and recognized them, her face twisted with fury.

"What are you doing here? Get out!"

Ah. Some things never changed.

Isabella smirked. "We're shopping, obviously. The real question is—what are you doing here, Ms. Blackwood?"

Sophia's face flushed with rage, but when her gaze landed on Evelyn, she visibly swallowed her temper. Nathan's warnings clearly still held weight.

"None of your business. Either buy something or leave."

Evelyn tilted her head, amusement dancing in her eyes.

"Did your brother banish you here to learn humility?"

Sophia's hands clenched into fists. "This is your fault! How dare you even—"

"Me?" Evelyn laughed lightly. "You earned this all on your own. Don't blame me for your consequences."

The store manager, sensing wealthy customers, hurried over with a practiced smile.

"Sophia, are these friends of yours? Do you need assistance?"

Before Sophia could respond, Isabella pointed at several displays. "That one, that one, and those over there—wrap them all up."

Sophia's jaw tightened as she glared at Evelyn.

She didn’t move.

The manager nudged her sharply. "Hurry up! You’ve only sold one pair this month. Do you want to keep your job?"

Sophia gritted her teeth. "I’ll be right with you."

Evelyn waved a hand. "No need for fittings. We’ll take everything she picked. I’d rather not stay another minute."

Sophia eyed her suspiciously.

The manager beamed. "Oh! You must be here to support her! How kind—"

Evelyn cut her off with a laugh. "We’re not her friends. But by all means, give her the commission. Good luck hitting your quota."

Sophia’s face darkened as the manager eagerly rushed to process the sale.

Isabella pouted. "Why let her off so easy? After everything she’s done?"

Evelyn shrugged. "I’m done wasting energy on the Blackwoods. As long as she stays out of my way, she can hate me quietly."

Besides, seeing the proud Sophia reduced to servitude was satisfaction enough.

The trio continued shopping, leaving with armfuls of bags before parting ways at nightfall.

Outside the mall, Evelyn handed her purchases to Marcus.

Back at Highland Estates, the lights were still on.

The moment Evelyn stepped inside, the rich scent of chocolate filled the air.

Teddy bounded out of the kitchen, spoon in hand.

"Ms. Sinclair! You’ve been busy! Next time, take me with you—I have excellent taste!"