Chapter 172

"Aunt Penelope, your presence means everything to me." Victoria's voice trembled with gratitude, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

The grand hall erupted in hushed murmurs as all heads turned simultaneously toward the entrance.

Nathan Blackwood and Julian Montgomery strode in side by side, commanding every gaze in the room.

The striking pair captivated the crowd. Either man could dominate Hollywood overnight with those chiseled features alone.

Both wore tailored suits with polished leather shoes, yet their styles contrasted sharply. Nathan's black ensemble exuded icy authority while Julian's pristine white suit radiated effortless elegance.

"Oh my heavens! Mr. Blackwood and Mr. Montgomery together - this is too much!"

"I could die happy after seeing this! Look at Mr. Blackwood's godlike proportions! He's literally walking perfection!"

"That wicked smirk of Mr. Montgomery's could steal any woman's soul!"

Victoria shot Cassandra a knowing glance as the younger woman stared hungrily at Julian. "Still haven't tamed your white whale, Cassie? After all these years of pining?"

"Patience is a virtue," Cassandra hissed through clenched teeth. "He'll be mine eventually."

Victoria's lips curled. "Look at those vultures circling him. If you wait much longer, someone else might snatch him first."

Cassandra's jaw tightened until her molars ached.

Of course I want to be Mrs. Montgomery! she thought bitterly. But after that humiliating rejection, how can I face him? Still, I can't let Victoria see me fail!

As Nathan and Julian approached, Victoria's attention locked onto Nathan. She was about to rush forward when another wave of whispers made her freeze.

Bathed in golden sunset light streaming through the doors, an ethereal silhouette appeared.

The vision that made Victoria's blood boil - Evelyn Carter.

"Divine," Julian murmured, his gaze riveted on Evelyn.

Nathan's pupils dilated, his breathing growing ragged as his pulse accelerated.

"Who is that goddess? She carries herself like royalty!"

"That's a Master Febb original from Helix Couture! Only true elites can commission his work!"

"The dress is magnificent, but she elevates it to art! Helix should make her their ambassador!"

The admiring whispers swirled through the hall like autumn leaves.

Evelyn had forgone conventional evening wear for a bespoke pale azure gown with a high neckline and delicate landscape embroidery that hugged her curves perfectly.

Her understated elegance effortlessly eclipsed both Victoria and Cassandra.

Damn her! Cassandra seethed. Why didn't I think of that look? Penelope's expression darkened similarly.

Penelope had chosen an expensive high-necked gown to showcase her maintained figure. Now this country mouse had stolen her thunder with superior youth and poise.

No amount of designer clothes could disguise Penelope's fading beauty next to Evelyn's radiant presence. The bitter truth burned in her chest.