Chapter 364

The evening air was crisp as Evelyn and Theodore escorted Isabella to her car in the underground parking garage.

"Ms. Laurent, thank you for such a wonderful dinner. The dessert was divine—I couldn’t stop myself from having seconds," Isabella admitted, her eyes sparkling with delight.

"Please send my compliments to the chef."

Evelyn’s lips curved into a warm smile. "If you enjoyed it, I’ll have two boxes delivered to your hotel before you leave Crestview. One for you, and one for your mother."

Theodore seized the opportunity to interject, pride lacing his voice. "Ms. Wang, every dish you tasted tonight, including the dessert, was personally crafted by Ms. Carter herself."

Isabella’s eyes widened in astonishment. "Wait—you made that intricate dessert, Ms. Carter?"

It was difficult to reconcile—Evelyn, born into wealth, a formidable businesswoman, and yet, an accomplished chef. The dessert alone, with its delicate layers, was a testament to her skill.

Evelyn ducked her head slightly, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "Yes, though I could’ve done better. My apologies."

Isabella fell silent for a moment before a slow smile spread across her face. "Do you have a contract with you, Ms. Carter?"

Evelyn and Theodore exchanged startled glances. "Are you saying—?"

"I want Monarch Grand Hotels to bring my dream wedding to life," Isabella declared. "If possible, I’d like to sign the agreement tonight."

Evelyn’s pulse quickened, though her expression remained composed. Inside, her heart raced with exhilaration.

Theodore, barely containing his excitement, rifled through his briefcase. "I have it right here. We always carry contracts with us, Ms. Wang."

Evelyn took a steadying breath, her gaze intent. "Ms. Wang, you entrusted Monarch Group and Blackwood Industries with finding a designer for your custom jewelry piece. Since I haven’t fulfilled that request yet, may I ask why you’ve chosen us for your wedding?"

Theodore blinked, equally curious.

Isabella hesitated, then sighed. "To be honest, I wasn’t interested in either of you handling my wedding. I’ve never been to Crestview, and I only agreed to host it here to honor my mother’s wishes. From the start, I doubted both your hotel and Blackwood Hotel."

She met Evelyn’s gaze, sincerity shining in her eyes. "I accepted Mr. Blackwood’s invitation tonight, but I wasn’t enthusiastic about it. I thought it didn’t matter who I chose—you or him. For that, I apologize. I was arrogant. But now that I’m here, I see that both of you are exceptional leaders. I know I’m in good hands either way."

"Then why us?" Evelyn pressed.

Isabella smiled softly. "I hadn’t decided until you gave me Aurora’s Tear. Tonight’s dinner was a masterpiece, every dish reflecting your dedication and creativity. Your sincerity moved me. That’s why I’m choosing Monarch Grand Hotels."

Evelyn was stunned.

All those years spent honing her culinary skills hadn’t been in vain. They had served her when she least expected it.

As Evelyn and Isabella settled into the car, Theodore laid out two sets of documents, his grin irrepressible.

Before signing, Isabella paused. "Ms. Carter, may I add one more condition to the contract?"

"Of course," Evelyn replied patiently. "What is it?"

"I want to keep my wedding setup a secret until the day itself. I’d love to surprise my fans—and my mother. Can you promise me that?"

"Absolutely. We’ll ensure everything remains confidential, just as outlined in the agreement." Evelyn had a way of instilling confidence with just her words.

The tension of the past week finally dissolved.

Isabella extended her hand, her smile radiant. "Here’s to a successful collaboration, Ms. Carter."

Evelyn clasped her hand firmly, her eyes gleaming. "The pleasure is mine, Ms. Laurent."