Chapter 131

"Isabella, Lily is too naive for someone as calculating as you." Sophia Reynolds pulled Isabella Jackson aside, her expression icy. "Stay away from her."

Isabella's smile froze. Her lashes fluttered slightly. "Aunt Sophia, are you still upset about what happened last time?"

"Since you're aware, keep your distance!" Sophia's tone was sharp.

Isabella lifted her glistening eyes, voice soft. "I only meant to warn you. I never expected my sister to call the police. I even pleaded for leniency afterward, but she—"

"Enough!" Sophia cut her off. "You're clever enough to understand me."

"Mom!" Lily White stormed over, shielding Isabella. "How could you speak to her like that?"

Sophia's expression shifted. "Lily, I'm doing this for your own good."

"I don't need it!" Lily grabbed Isabella's hand. "Isabella, I'm sorry about my mother..."

Isabella shook her head gently. "It's fine. Aunt Sophia cares about you." She withdrew her hand. "You two talk. I'll head to the ballroom."

The moment she turned, the warmth in Isabella's eyes vanished.

If Lily weren't still useful, she wouldn't have tolerated such humiliation.

The day she won Ethan Sullivan's heart, she'd make Sophia beg for forgiveness on her knees.

The ballroom glittered under crystal chandeliers. As Isabella entered, she spotted Ethan pushing Evelyn Sullivan's wheelchair through the doors.

Clenching her fists, she forced a sweet smile and approached.

"Ethan, I didn't expect you to come."

Ethan gave her a cold glance. "The Whites issued a public apology. Of course I'd attend."

Only then did Isabella notice Evelyn. Her pupils constricted at the sight of the necklace around her sister's neck.

"Angel's Tears?" Her voice rose sharply. "Why do you have this?"

She whirled toward Ethan, tears welling. "Ethan, wasn't this meant to be my birthday gift?"

Evelyn arched a brow at Ethan, her lips curling in mockery.

Nearby guests paused, whispers spreading like wildfire.

"Is Mr. Sullivan two-timing?"

"Sisters fighting over one man—this should be good."

Ethan's face darkened. "I never promised it to you."

"But in Seattle..." Isabella's voice trembled. "You bought it because I loved it! Giving it to her now—are you punishing me?"

Her tearful display drew more curious stares.

Evelyn chuckled softly, fingertips brushing the sapphire. "How fascinating. This necklace has quite the backstory."