Chapter 299

The crystal chandelier cast a golden glow over the lavish banquet hall as Theodore Whitmore leaned closer to Nathan Black, his brow arched in skepticism. "Are you absolutely certain about this decision? No second thoughts?"

Nathan's lips curled into a cold smirk. "Who do you think will be the one regretting this after I divorce Evelyn?" His voice was smooth, almost indifferent, as if discussing the weather rather than the end of his marriage.

Theodore chuckled, lifting his champagne flute in a casual toast. "Well then, here's to your impending freedom, my friend."

Nathan clinked his glass against Theodore's before taking a slow sip, his piercing gaze scanning the room.

Meanwhile, across the hall, Evelyn Hartley and Natalie Brooks stood near a marble pillar, engaged in quiet conversation. A woman in a sunflower-yellow evening gown approached them with a practiced smile.

"Ms. Hartley, Ms. Brooks," she greeted warmly. "Giselle and the others are gathered by the lounge. Why don’t you join them? It’s much livelier over there."

Evelyn and Natalie exchanged a brief glance before nodding politely. After all, Giselle Sterling was tonight’s honored guest—it would be rude to decline.

As they settled onto the plush velvet sofas, the conversation revolved around Giselle’s latest acquisition—a rare, diamond-encrusted necklace that cost more than most people’s annual salaries. The piece was passed around for admiration, and when it reached Evelyn, she barely glanced at it before handing it off to Natalie.

The chatter was predictable—designer labels, exclusive resorts, and who was rumored to be dating whom. Evelyn stifled a sigh, her fingers tapping lightly against her clutch. Natalie caught her eye, her lips quirking in silent amusement.

Just a little longer, Evelyn told herself.

Finally, Giselle was whisked away by the host, and the group dispersed. Evelyn and Natalie wasted no time making their escape.

But just as Evelyn took a step forward, a sudden force collided with her from behind. She stumbled, her balance faltering—until Natalie’s quick reflexes caught her arm, steadying her. Her handbag, however, wasn’t as fortunate, hitting the marble floor with a sharp thud.

"Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry!"

Evelyn turned to see Daphne Whitmore—the same woman who had invited them earlier—clutching her own clutch in dismay.

"I wasn’t watching where I was going," Daphne fretted, her cheeks flushed.

Evelyn waved it off with a polite smile. "It’s fine." She bent to retrieve her bag, but Daphne was already one step ahead, scooping it up with surprising eagerness.

Instead of handing it back immediately, Daphne hesitated, her fingers brushing over the leather as if inspecting it. Then, with a bright smile, she finally returned it. "I checked for any damage—it’s perfectly fine!"

Evelyn’s gaze sharpened, lingering on Daphne for a beat too long before accepting the bag with a nod. "Thank you."

As they walked away, Natalie muttered under her breath, "That was… odd. She practically studied your bag."

Evelyn’s lips curved slightly, but she said nothing.

Some games were best played in silence.