Chapter 148

Evelyn shook her head lightly. "I went straight to pick up the prayer beads after work. Mr. Sullivan might still be at the office."

Disappointment flickered in Mrs. Sullivan's eyes. She had hoped their relationship would improve after living under the same roof, but it seemed nothing had changed.

"Working late on my birthday? You must scold him properly when he arrives!"

Evelyn pressed her lips into a faint smile. "Of course."

Nearby, Isabella watched as Mrs. Sullivan doted on Evelyn while barely acknowledging her. Her nails dug deep into her palms.

If not for currying favor with this old woman, she wouldn’t endure such humiliation!

"Isabella? Why so quiet?"

Margaret's voice snapped her back to reality. She forced a smile. "Aunt Margaret, I’ve been a bit tired lately."

"Planning the birthday banquet must have been exhausting." Margaret patted her hand. "If only Evelyn were half as considerate as you."

Suppressing her irritation, Isabella lowered her head meekly. "Helping you is my pleasure."

Margaret nodded approvingly. "Don’t worry. You’re the only one I see as my daughter-in-law."

"Aunt Margaret, please don’t say that..." Isabella feigned alarm. "Evelyn and Ethan are already married."

Margaret whispered something in her ear, and Isabella’s face flushed crimson.

After circling the ballroom, Evelyn grew bored and headed to the garden.

At the entrance, she overheard a group of socialites gossiping.

"Mr. Sullivan didn’t show tonight. Too ashamed to be seen in his condition?"

"If I were paralyzed, I’d hide in shame too!"

Evelyn strode in, her expression icy. "Say that to Ethan’s face."

The women startled, then sneered when they recognized her.

"We’re just stating facts. Why so defensive, Miss Sullivan?"

A woman in a pink gown stood. "Pretend you heard nothing, or my father will cut ties with the Jacksons!"

Before Evelyn could respond, a cold voice cut through the air.

"The Wangs must be feeling bold tonight."

Ethan sat in his wheelchair, his gaze sharp as a blade.

The socialites paled instantly.

"Mr. Sullivan... We’re sorry..."

"Please forgive us..."