Chapter 95

Hearing Evelyn Sinclair's words, Vanessa Holloway frowned slightly. Sophia Blackwood hadn't expected Evelyn to have such a close connection with Lumière.

The founder of Sophia's favorite brand, Lumière, was actually Evelyn?

Sophia didn’t want to be publicly escorted out by security. The humiliation would be front-page gossip by morning.

She scoffed. "Why are you so smug? I wouldn’t step foot in this dump again anyway!"

Gritting her teeth, she yanked Vanessa away.

At the entrance downstairs, Vanessa suddenly stopped.

"Wait—what’s wrong?"

Though Sophia didn’t want to leave empty-handed, she knew Evelyn would make good on her threat. Being dragged out would be far worse.

"I think I just saw your brother. Shouldn’t we wait for him?"

If Nathan recognized Evelyn, would old feelings resurface? The thought twisted Vanessa’s stomach.

Ever since she’d returned, Nathan had been distant—avoiding her, cutting conversations short.

No. I can’t risk it.

Sophia nodded eagerly. "Perfect. I’ll tell him how Evelyn humiliated me!"

They lingered near the lounge, unnoticed.

Meanwhile, Evelyn was in high spirits—though Isabella Montgomery wasn’t satisfied. "Why let them off easy? Should’ve had security toss them out!"

Natalie Beaumont shot her a look. "Making a scene would’ve stolen the spotlight. The show’s success matters more than their pride."

Isabella finally understood with a quiet "Oh."

"So the woman behind Sophia is Nathan Blackwood’s lover?" Natalie asked.

Evelyn shrugged. "Small world, isn’t it?"

Natalie smirked. "Honestly? I expected better taste. That face doesn’t hold a candle to yours."

As the event wound down, guests trickled out.

Nathan had planned to leave earlier but got roped into staying by Tristan Whitmore. Seeing Evelyn on the runway—hearing her admit she’d never worn a wedding dress—stirred something complicated in his chest.

He’d downed several glasses of wine, but the buzz never came.

Tristan grew restless. "You’re brooding. Is it because of her?"

Who knew they’d run into Evelyn here?

Who knew she was tied to Lumière? How did this woman, with no notable background, keep blindsiding them?

Nathan stayed silent, his dark gaze unreadable. Tristan didn’t push.

After a moment, Nathan grabbed his jacket. "Let’s go."

They reached the exit just as Lucas Sterling and Evelyn stood with Natalie, laughing as they said their goodbyes.

Nathan paused, as if waiting for them to leave first.

Evelyn pulled out her phone, showing Natalie a photo. "Do you like it?"

Natalie’s eyes widened. "This is—"

"My gift to you," Evelyn said, grinning. "For pulling off this incredible show."

Natalie blinked at the image. "This is too much."

Lucas chuckled. "What could you possibly give Nat that’s worth her time? Save your pennies for a handbag. I’ll cover this."

Evelyn tugged his arm, eyes sparkling with mischief. "I want to buy a yacht!"

Lucas froze.