Chapter 351

The moment Olivia finished speaking, Lila's and Victor's faces drained of color. Guests exchanged uneasy glances. It was obvious to everyone that Olivia was standing up for Evelyn.

Natalie leaned in close, whispering to Evelyn, "Mrs. Sinclair truly has your back!"

Evelyn smiled softly, touched by the gesture.

"I'll apologize to her!" Lila blurted out. She hastily descended from the stage and trudged toward Evelyn, each step heavy with reluctance.

Standing before Evelyn, Lila took a sharp breath, clenched her teeth, and forced out, "Evelyn, I'm sorry. I spoke carelessly and wronged you that day. I sincerely apologize and hope you can forgive my mistake."

Though Lila's words sounded contrite, the fire in her eyes betrayed her true feelings. She was seething.

Evelyn nearly laughed at the absurdity, a mocking smile playing on her lips.

She gave a slight nod. "Since you're apologizing so sincerely, how could I refuse? But do be more careful with your words in the future, Lila. I'm sure you understand how dangerous loose tongues can be."

Evelyn's smile never wavered as she spoke.

Meanwhile, Lila's face cycled through shades of pale and flushed, emotions warring visibly. Finally, she stumbled out of the venue in a daze, barely aware of how she'd even left.

This gala had been nothing short of a revolution for all present. Olivia's maneuver had been masterful—killing three birds with one stone! Those who'd been waiting for Evelyn's downfall or currying favor with Lila were left thoroughly humiliated. Who could have predicted such a dramatic turn?

After the event, Olivia pulled Evelyn aside and invited her to stay at the Sinclair residence for the night. Back at the Sinclair mansion, the group gathered in the living room.

Olivia finally explained, "Truthfully, my security team noticed the private investigator following me from day one. I wanted to uncover who was behind it and their motives, so I let it play out." Olivia's laugh was icy. "When Lila appeared, I knew she was the puppet master. Her motives were transparent."

It turned out Olivia's reactions during the confrontation had all been an act.

Hearing this, Evelyn exclaimed, "So that's why your bodyguard didn't intervene! You'd planned everything from the start!"

Olivia nodded with a satisfied smile. "Precisely. Even this gala was a 'gift' I prepared for Lila—one she'll never forget."

"Yes, it's certainly unforgettable for her," Evelyn said, unable to suppress her smile.

Not just Lila, Evelyn thought—Victor would remember this night vividly too.

In stark contrast to the warm atmosphere at the Sinclair residence, tension hung thick in the Prescott household that night.

The moment the Prescott family returned home, Diana snapped at Lila, "On your knees. Now!"

Lila bit her lip so hard it turned white. Her eyes reddened as she lowered her gaze, slowly sinking to her knees.