Chapter 264

"You'll understand soon."

Evelyn Sullivan linked arms with Sophia Reynolds as they walked down the hallway toward their reserved private room.

As they passed Ethan Sullivan's private room, Evelyn suddenly stopped. Without hesitation, she pushed open the door.

"Evelyn!" Sophia gasped. "That's not our room—"

Ignoring her, Evelyn strode inside.

The laughter and conversation inside died instantly. Ethan, an unfamiliar client, Isabella Jackson, and Colin Keller all turned to stare at the doorway.

Evelyn's gaze lingered on Isabella for a split second, a flicker of coldness in her eyes before she replaced it with perfect surprise and apology.

"My apologies. Wrong room."

Under the table, Isabella's fingers clenched, nails digging into her palms. She forced down the hatred in her eyes, though her lips twitched uncontrollably.

That persistent bitch!

Evelyn subtly shifted, fully exposing Sophia behind her to the room's occupants.

The client's face paled as he scrambled to his feet. "CEO Reynolds! What a coincidence!"

Sophia's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Indeed. MY Fashion's fall collection has been selling well. I've been discussing collaborations with several distributors."

The implication was clear.

Beads of sweat formed on the client's forehead. "I just happened to run into Mr. Sullivan tonight—"

"Understood." Sophia cut him off, turning to Evelyn. "Assistant Sullivan, aren't you going to apologize?"

Evelyn looked at Ethan, her gaze so distant it was as if he were a stranger. "Apologies for interrupting your meal."

Ethan's chest tightened. The coldness in her eyes sent an unfamiliar pang of panic through him.

"Is that really how you apologize?"

Evelyn narrowed her eyes. "What would satisfy you, Mr. Sullivan?"

"At least a toast."

"Fine."

She briskly poured a full glass of wine and raised it to drink, but Ethan spoke again.

"Standing so far away lacks sincerity."

Evelyn took a deep breath and stepped closer to him. As their glasses clinked, his low voice reached her ears.

"Wait for me after this."

She ignored him, downed her drink, and turned to leave without another word.

Ethan stared at the closed door, unable to stay seated any longer. Five minutes later, he stood to excuse himself.

"Ethan!" Isabella frantically grabbed his sleeve. "Don't go—"

He pulled his arm free. "Colin will assist you."

The door closed again. Left staring at the empty seat, Isabella finally understood the bitterness Evelyn had once endured.