Chapter 377

Evelyn attended the fashion gala tonight with clear intentions.

She wasn't here to flaunt her status as the Kingsley heiress. Two crucial matters demanded her attention.

First, she needed to address those vicious rumors about stealing the Westridge project from Blackwood Industries. The media would get their exclusive interview, and she'd set the record straight once and for all.

Second, she carried a carefully selected gift for Isabella Laurent. But beneath that gracious gesture, her sharp eyes tracked Cassandra Blackwood's every move. That scheming woman wouldn't ruin tonight's events - not on Evelyn's watch.

Isabella approached with a distinguished gentleman in a tailored espresso tuxedo. "Ms. Kingsley, allow me to introduce someone special."

"This is Edmund Windsor, CEO of Luxe Bijoux," Isabella said with a graceful gesture. "An old friend of mine."

"Edmund, meet Evelyn Kingsley, General Manager of Monarch Grand Hotels. A true rising star in Fairhaven's business circles."

Edmund hailed from Valmont's aristocratic circles, his royal lineage evident in his bearing.

This wasn't his first visit to Crestview or the country of Orealm. He'd developed a deep affection for this nation years ago.

"The pleasure is mine, Mr. Windsor. Welcome to Crestview." Evelyn extended her hand with practiced elegance.

Edmund's smile warmed as he clasped her hand. "The honor is entirely mine, Ms. Kingsley. Your presence elevates our event."

Isabella's gaze flickered between them. Something felt... off.

They were supposed to be strangers, yet their interaction carried the ease of old acquaintances.

The press corps buzzed with speculation.

Edmund Windsor, with his blue blood and aristocratic bearing, rarely showed such warmth to anyone. Yet he smiled at Evelyn like she was family.

But then again, Evelyn Kingsley was extraordinary. And beautiful women always commanded attention.

"What an unexpected surprise, Ms. Kingsley. Fancy meeting you here."

Isabelle Montgomery glided forward, her elaborate train swirling behind her. With her dimpled smile and wide eyes, she played the innocent angel perfectly.

Evelyn's gaze turned glacial as it settled on Isabelle.

Without acknowledging the interruption, she turned back to her companions. "Shall we continue our conversation over there?"

The deliberate snub made Isabelle's blood boil. Her fingers clenched around her clutch until her knuckles whitened.

How dare Evelyn dismiss her? Her brother was Julian Montgomery!

Just as the trio turned to leave, Isabelle called out with saccharine sweetness, "That's a remarkable jewelry set, Ms. Kingsley. The crimson beryl pairs exquisitely with the rose gold. It caught my eye from across the room."

All attention shifted to Evelyn's necklace.

Evelyn's lips curved in a cool smile. "How kind of you to notice."

"But correct me if I'm wrong," Isabelle continued, her eyes glinting with malice, "these pieces don't appear to be from Luxe Bijoux's collection."

The crowd leaned in for closer inspection. Isabelle was right.

While Evelyn's jewelry was undeniably stunning, connoisseurs could tell it wasn't Luxe Bijoux's signature style.

A major breach of etiquette - right before the brand's CEO.

"Considering this is Luxe Bijoux's exclusive event," Isabelle purred, chin lifted in challenge, "wearing another designer's work seems rather... gauche. With Monarch Group's resources at your disposal, compliance shouldn't be difficult. Unless..." Her eyes widened in faux realization. "Are these your own designs? Using Luxe Bijoux's platform to promote your brand? How very... entrepreneurial of you. Then again, you did outmaneuver Mr. Blackwood in business. Marketing opportunities everywhere, hmm?"

Her barbed words hung in the air.

The journalists erupted in hushed whispers, cameras trained on Evelyn's reaction.