Chapter 54

Sophia Blackwood stormed out of the jewelry store, her face burning with humiliation. Isabella Montgomery snatched the black card from the counter and examined it with wide eyes. "How on earth did you get this?" she gasped.

Evelyn Sinclair smiled faintly. "Lucas gave it to me for my eighteenth birthday. Told me to keep it on me at all times. Never thought I'd actually use it."

"Why doesn't my brother give me things like this?" Isabella groaned, clutching her head in exaggerated envy.

Evelyn laughed and held the card out to her. "If you love it that much, take it."

"No way!" Isabella pushed it back. "These things are non-transferable. But you can buy me something nice with it."

Evelyn nodded in agreement, amused.

After purchasing a stunning new necklace, Isabella dragged Evelyn around the mall for another hour before they finally left.

Back at the office, Evelyn was in high spirits. Olivia Kensington had been making petty moves all day, but Evelyn paid her no mind. She knew Olivia’s schemes wouldn’t escape Alexander Sterling’s notice. If Olivia wanted to dig her own grave, Evelyn wasn’t about to stop her.

As she packed up to leave, her phone buzzed. Natalie Beaumont’s name flashed on the screen.

"Emergency!" Natalie blurted the second Evelyn answered. "There’s a charity gala tonight, and my artist, Adrian Prescott, needs a plus-one. I’m out of the country—can you step in?"

Evelyn checked her watch. "Fine. I’ve got nothing else planned."

"Love you! He’ll bring a dress. Be there soon."

The call ended, and Evelyn arched a brow. "How does Natalie always know I’ll say yes?"

She texted Bennett about the last-minute change and headed downstairs to wait. Adrian was a well-known model, and if anyone from the company spotted them together, the gossip would be relentless. Best to avoid unnecessary drama.

Less than ten minutes later, a sleek sports car screeched to a halt in front of the building. Evelyn nearly groaned when Adrian rolled down the window, waving dramatically. She hurried inside, but not before he blew a kiss to the gathering crowd.

Tomorrow’s headlines are going to be a nightmare.

Adrian grinned as they pulled away. "Ms. Sinclair, we haven’t met, but I’ve heard so much about you. Thanks for saving me tonight."

Evelyn offered a tight smile. "I’m doing this for Natalie. Not you."

His grin widened. "No wonder she was so confident you’d agree. You two must be close."

"Very."

Adrian, sensing her disinterest, wisely stayed quiet the rest of the ride.

They arrived early, and Evelyn changed into the emerald gown Adrian had brought while he waited outside. The charity gala was an exclusive event, filled with celebrities and high-profile figures. The moment they stepped inside, Evelyn spotted Margaret and Sophia Blackwood near the entrance.

Her lips curved. If they’re here, Nathan can’t be far.

The auction was the main event. Evelyn had no intention of bidding—until the final item appeared on screen.

An antique emerald-encrusted tobacco pipe.

Her breath caught.

She’d seen it before—in the Blackwood family memorial hall. It was Old Master Blackwood’s most prized heirloom, something he guarded fiercely.

How the hell did it end up here?

Her gaze flicked to Margaret and Sophia, who stood smugly at the front, basking in the attention.

Then it clicked.

They stole it.

The auctioneer announced, "This exquisite piece has been generously donated by Mrs. Blackwood and Ms. Blackwood of Blackwood Corporation. Bidding starts at three million dollars."

Three million? Evelyn nearly laughed. That’s it?

Margaret raised her paddle. "Three million!"

"Four million," someone countered.

Evelyn waited, letting the bids climb. Then, without hesitation, she lifted her paddle.

"Ten million."