Chapter 231

Evelyn Sullivan walked away without looking back.

"Isabella Jackson! Stop right there!"

Isabella's shrill voice exploded behind her, but Evelyn didn't even pause.

Isabella trembled with rage, her nails digging into her palms. How dare that temp worker act so arrogantly!

Her cold gaze swept the lounge before landing on a water bottle. Each contestant's drink had a personalized label—including staff.

A vicious plan took shape in her mind.

When the semifinal began, Evelyn reviewed designs alone in the judging room. Gradually, her vision blurred, and her body burned.

She bit her lip hard. The metallic tang of blood filled her mouth. Someone had drugged her!

Struggling to stand, her legs felt like lead. She staggered toward the back door before collapsing onto a chaise.

As consciousness faded, strong arms lifted her. Instinctively, she wrapped around the man's neck, pressing a light kiss to his Adam's apple.

"Evelyn Sullivan, you asked for this."

His deep voice seemed distant. She only remembered being pinned against the door, consumed by searing kisses.

The delicate chime of a bracelet echoed sharply in the silent lounge.

Evelyn awoke covered by a thin blanket. Ethan Sullivan sat by the window, his expression unreadable in the backlight.

"My phone..."

Her voice was hoarse, cheeks burning. Those feverish images wouldn't leave her mind.

Ethan tossed her fresh clothes without turning. "Get dressed. We need to talk."

When the rustling stopped, he faced her. Evelyn had regained her usual composure—except for the blush still coloring her ears.

"What did you want to discuss, Mr. Sullivan?"