Chapter 140

Sophia Reynolds bit her lip, hesitation flickering in her eyes.

"It's not work-related..." she murmured. "Just some personal family matters."

Evelyn Sullivan nodded without pressing further.

"Let me know if you need help."

"Thanks."

After seeing Sophia out, Evelyn's phone rang. An unknown number flashed on the screen.

"Hello, is this Evelyn Sullivan? We're from the National Fashion Design Competition committee."

Evelyn arched a brow.

"Speaking."

"This year's competition will be held next month. We'd be honored if you could join us as a judge."

The voice on the other end brimmed with anticipation.

Evelyn tapped her fingers lightly against the desk. She received this invitation every year after her three consecutive wins. But because of Ethan Sullivan, she'd always declined.

"Dates?"

"Fifteenth of next month, at the Rongcheng International Convention Center!"

The caller's pitch rose sharply, clearly surprised by her question.

A faint smile curved Evelyn's lips.

"Send the details to my email."

Within five minutes of hanging up, a confirmation email arrived. Simultaneously, the competition's official account couldn't resist breaking the news.

[Breaking! Elia Confirmed as This Year's Judge!]

The announcement sent the internet into a frenzy.

[OMG! My idol is finally coming out of retirement!]

[Rumor has it Elia never makes public appearances—is she looking for an apprentice?]

[Will we get to see her in person at the finals? I'm buying tickets now!]

Isabella Jackson stumbled upon the trending topic while reviewing past winning designs. Her nails dug into her palms as she stared at her phone screen.

She'd just registered for the competition. Now Evelyn was a judge?

Her phone vibrated with a message from Ethan: [Brocade's documents are ready. Sign the transfer agreement tomorrow.]

Isabella smirked coldly and replied: [Thanks, Ethan.]

Setting her phone aside, she walked to the window. The setting sun stretched her shadow long across the floor.

"Evelyn Sullivan, you think this makes you better than me?"

——

On the top floor of Sullivan Tower, Ethan stood before the floor-to-ceiling windows, a document clenched in his hand.

"Mr. Sullivan, Brocade's handover is complete," Colin Keller reported from behind.

"Mm."

Ethan's gaze remained fixed on the distant skyline, his expression inscrutable.

"After this, we're even."