Chapter 271

The gala sparkled with dazzling lights and clinking glasses. Evelyn Sullivan stood amidst the crowd, effortlessly charming several business partners. Her crimson V-neck dress accentuated her delicate collarbones, shimmering under the chandeliers.

"You're truly remarkable for your age, Ms. Sullivan. A toast to you." A partner raised his glass.

Evelyn lifted her champagne flute with grace, her red lips curving. "To our successful collaboration."

Just then, murmurs rippled through the entrance. Her peripheral vision caught Ethan Sullivan entering with Isabella Jackson on his arm. They looked like a perfect pair.

"Ethan, isn't that my sister?" Isabella feigned surprise, covering her lips. "Dressed like that while entertaining clients... How inappropriate."

Ethan's piercing gaze locked onto the striking figure in red. The effortless allure in her every movement drew admiring glances from the men around her. His fists clenched, knuckles turning white.

"Poor sister," Isabella sighed with faux sympathy. "Perhaps I could arrange a cushy position for her at Brocade?"

"Enough." Ethan's voice was glacial. "One more word against her, and our deal is off."

Isabella paled, her nails digging into her palms. She forced a smile. "I only meant to show concern—"

"She doesn’t need it." Ethan strode toward Evelyn, his back rigid with resolve.

Left behind, Isabella's eyes darkened with malice. Spotting Ryan Paisley nearby, his attention fixed on Evelyn, her lips twisted into a knowing smirk.

"How... interesting."

Evelyn was mid-conversation when an icy shiver ran down her spine. She turned to find Ethan approaching, and her brows instinctively furrowed.

"Mr. Sullivan!" The partner greeted him with flustered enthusiasm.

Ethan gave a curt nod. "I need a word with Ms. Sullivan."

Once alone, Evelyn dropped her polite facade and turned to leave.

"In such a hurry?" Ethan caught her wrist. "You seemed quite engaged earlier."

She wrenched free. "We have nothing to discuss, Mr. Sullivan."

"Sullivan Group has a project for MY."

"Not interested." Her voice was frosty. "Save it for Brocade."

He stepped closer. "What if it's personal?"

"Don’t you have better things to do?" She retreated, putting distance between them.

"For you? Always." His low voice carried a dangerous allure.

Evelyn scoffed and walked away without a backward glance, heading for the dessert table. As she picked up a slice of cake, a shadow fell over her.

"Ethan, must you—" She froze upon meeting Ryan Paisley's gaze instead. "Mr. Paisley?"

His expression was unreadable. "So you're the founder of MY."