Chapter 239

William Sterling stood silently at the edge of the room, his expression unreadable.

He had no interest in his brother's domestic drama. What infuriated him most was how they'd ruined his daughter's special celebration.

Therefore, he felt no obligation to intervene, no matter how fiercely Evelyn retaliated.

They had it coming. Genevieve and Margaret deserved every bit of it.

The situation was escalating beyond repair. They eventually slunk away in humiliation. Charles Sterling also excused himself after exchanging brief words with William.

The minor disturbance barely caused a ripple. The guests smoothly transitioned to other topics - some returning to the dance floor, others engaging in polite conversation.

No one dared whisper about what had transpired. Evelyn took a delicate sip of her merlot. The wine stained her lips a deep crimson, accentuating her striking beauty and icy demeanor.

When she turned and noticed William's stormy expression, she approached and gently tugged his sleeve.

"Don't be upset, Father," she coaxed with a charming smile. "I wasn't the one who suffered. Why waste your energy on such people?"

Her sudden transformation from ice queen to doting daughter surprised everyone, yet also endeared her to them.

The contrast made her earlier coldness seem like a carefully crafted performance. Faced with such radiant charm, even the hardest hearts would melt.

"Charles has completely lost his judgment," William grumbled, his good mood shattered. "Bringing them here today? He must be under some spell."

Evelyn blinked innocently and clung to his arm like a koala. "Uncle Charles has been fooled for years. This isn't new."

"Your health is more important, Dad. Please don't upset yourself." Her voice carried genuine concern.

William couldn't stay angry under her affectionate assault. Soon, he was laughing and toasting with other guests.

As the party wound down, exhaustion crept over Evelyn. After bidding William goodnight, she stepped outside.

The night air felt refreshing after the wine. Too much had happened tonight - Nathan's kiss, Sebastian's roses - leaving her emotionally drained.

Her stilettos clicked rhythmically on the pavement. Streetlights cast elongated shadows, creating a glittering path like fallen stars.

Then the lights abruptly ended. Darkness swallowed the next stretch of road.

Evelyn paused. An unnatural chill crept up her spine.

From the blackness came faint, hurried breathing. Then two hulking figures materialized.

"Miss Sinclair," one rumbled. "Someone requests your presence."

Evelyn's breath hitched. Should've brought security, she thought ruefully. Yet she maintained perfect composure.

Her piercing gaze assessed the men. "Kidnapping or ambush?" she demanded coolly.

Their stunned expressions confirmed this wasn't a random encounter.

"Just... a conversation," the other stammered, pointing toward the darkened path.

A glowing cigarette tip pierced the shadows.

Someone was waiting. The atmosphere thickened with unspoken danger.

Evelyn calculated her options. She could run - but that would leave this threat unresolved. Better to confront it now.

Curiosity also gnawed at her. Who would dare target a Sterling?

With measured steps, she advanced, stopping three meters from the mysterious figure.

The bodyguards positioned themselves behind her. The shadowy form remained indistinct - just an outline against the wall.

But Evelyn recognized the distinctive perfume mixed with expensive tobacco. Only one guest tonight wore that scent - someone with an equally commanding presence.

The silent standoff continued. Evelyn felt unseen eyes studying her intently.

As the cigarette burned halfway, her patience wore thin.

"If you went through all this trouble to see me," she said coolly, "at least have the courtesy to speak, Victoria Ashford."

The glowing ember flared, revealing Victoria Ashford's sharp features in the brief illumination.