Chapter 106

Evelyn Carter's gaze was sharp as a blade.

Natalie Stapleton squirmed under her stare, fingers unconsciously twisting the satin folds of her wedding gown. She looked pleadingly at Evelyn, her voice barely above a whisper. "The bridesmaid was arranged by my father..."

Annabelle Taylor let out a cold laugh, crimson lips parting. "Arranged? Or did she invite herself?"

Natalie's face paled.

Murmurs rippled through the guests below. The dean wrung his hands anxiously, his eyes darting toward the stage.

Evelyn stepped subtly in front of Natalie. "Let's go through the side exit."

"But—"

"Your father is watching," Evelyn murmured. "Don't worry him."

Natalie bit her lip and nodded.

Evelyn bent to adjust the layers of tulle, the fabric swirling like a blooming night-blooming cereus in her hands.

"Stop right there!"

Simon Stapleton stormed over in three strides, grabbing Natalie's wrist. "Mr. Hamilton is waiting. Where do you think you're going?"

Natalie winced. "Simon, you're hurting me—"

"Enough!" Simon hissed through clenched teeth. "Do you have any idea what the Hamilton Group means? If we secure this connection, my position at the institute is set!"

Evelyn watched the man's naked ambition with icy detachment.

Simon suddenly pulled a red envelope from his inner pocket and shoved it into Evelyn's hands. "Take the money and get lost. Stop making trouble!"

The sharp corner of the envelope scraped her knuckles, leaving a red mark.

Natalie gasped as Simon yanked her around violently, sending her crashing onto the stage. Her veil slipped askew, hairpins scattering across the floor.

The crowd erupted in shocked whispers.

"Was that on purpose?" Simon snarled. "Trying to humiliate me in front of Mr. Hamilton?"

Natalie's eyes welled with tears. "The dress was too long—"

"Useless!" He flung her hand away. "I'll go myself!"

Natalie fell again, this time losing her bouquet. A broken crystal heel sliced a thin line of blood across her ankle.

Evelyn lunged forward, only to be shoved back by Simon. "Back off! This is none of your business!"

Alexander Hamilton rose from his seat.

The banquet hall fell silent.