Chapter 272

Evelyn Sullivan noticed the peculiar look in Ryan Paisley's eyes, but she had long been prepared to reveal her identity.

"Something wrong?"

A flicker of complex emotions passed through Ryan's gaze. "My apologies. I didn't realize you were the CEO of MY."

Evelyn frowned slightly, sensing an underlying meaning in his words.

"No need for formalities, Mr. Paisley. Business is business."

Ryan's expression dimmed. "If the opportunity arises, I'll prioritize working with MY in the future."

Evelyn arched a brow in surprise, about to respond politely when a cold voice cut in from behind.

"Having a pleasant chat?"

Without turning, she replied, "None of your concern."

Ethan Sullivan sat beside her with a dark expression, replacing her wine glass with warm milk.

"Drink less."

Too tired to argue, Evelyn stirred the milk absently.

"Ryan, you have other matters to attend to," Ethan dismissed him outright.

Ryan gave Evelyn one last lingering look before walking away.

"Stay away from him," Ethan said abruptly.

Evelyn scoffed. "What? Afraid I'll seduce your friend?"

Before Ethan could respond, Sophia Reynolds rushed over in a flurry.

"Evelyn, Mr. Wang and the others are waiting."

Grateful for the escape, Evelyn stood immediately.

Only when they turned the corner did Sophia lower her voice. "Ethan parades Isabella around like some trophy, then comes crawling back to you. Does he think he's some emperor picking concubines?"

"That's not the right idiom," Evelyn sighed, rubbing her temples.

"That's what you're focusing on?!" Sophia stomped her foot. "He's humiliating you!"

Evelyn's gaze drifted to the mingling crowd in the distance, her fingers unconsciously digging into her palms.

"I know my limits."

By the end of the gala, Evelyn was slightly tipsy. Sophia anxiously instructed the designated driver before watching her leave.

Through the car window, neon lights blurred into streaks. Leaning back, Evelyn let her thoughts wander into the night.