Chapter 430

The counterfeit Evelyn jewelry Cassandra obtained from Isabelle worked like magic.

Her heart pounded as she prepared to present the piece to Isabella as a gift, terrified of being exposed.

But Cassandra had already devised an escape plan. If caught, she'd claim she'd been duped by a friend due to her limited jewelry expertise.

Evelyn's apprentice must have perfected the craftsmanship because Isabella showed no suspicion. The star immediately adorned herself with the necklace, refusing to remove it.

Ultimately, Isabella signed the contract with Cassandra.

That wasn't all. With Penelope's glowing recommendation, Leonard finally brought Cassandra into the company's inner circle, promoting her to senior management where she could attend executive meetings.

That evening, mother and daughter celebrated on the terrace with champagne.

"Your father will transfer the hotel's management to you after Isabella's wedding," Penelope murmured, eyes gleaming with ambition. "Make a powerful impression, darling. Soon you'll join the board, and that's when we'll eliminate Nathan."

She embraced her daughter, visions of triumph sparkling in her gaze. "I can't rely on your sister, but my future rests in your capable hands."

"Don't worry, Mother," Cassandra declared, clinking her glass. "When I take control, the Blackwood empire will be ours."

A knock interrupted them.

"Madam Whitmore, Ms. Blackwood," the butler announced, "an invitation has arrived."

Exchanging glances, they stepped inside.

"From whom?" Cassandra demanded.

"Mr. Pembroke, personal secretary to Monarch Grand Hotels' general manager."

"Monarch Grand?" Could it be from Evelyn?

Taking the envelope, Penelope dismissed the servant. Inside were two invitations to a charity jewelry auction.

Her lips thinned, expression unreadable.

"Mother, we haven't heard from Evelyn in weeks. Why these sudden invitations? Could this be a trap?"

Penelope scoffed. "We've nothing to fear. Isabella's contract is signed and sealed."

The evening news flashed across the television, featuring the charity event.

"The organizer is Éclat magazine!" Cassandra gasped, pointing at the screen. "That iconic fashion bible every celebrity dreams of gracing. Evelyn's collaborating with Éclat? Unbelievable! And Isabella's attending!"

While Cassandra had expected Monarch to crumble after losing Isabella, Evelyn had secured this prestigious partnership. She always landed on her feet.

Jealousy burned through Cassandra, her nails biting into her palms.

"A grand event won't change her defeat," Penelope sneered. "Declining would look petty. I'll attend - that girl doesn't intimidate me."

"We can monitor her too," Cassandra added. "Ensure she doesn't sabotage our deal with Isabella."

Meanwhile, Evelyn enjoyed cocktails with Éclat's editor-in-chief, conversing fluently in French.

Changing into form-fitting athletic wear for kayaking, she rushed downstairs when Sebastian arrived.

"Seb!"

She leaped into his arms. The muscular man caught her effortlessly. Her curves pressed against him through the clinging fabric, creating an electrifying intimacy.