Chapter 438

The crowd of celebrities and journalists turned their stunned gazes toward Evelyn.

"Ms. Laurent, I apologize. I wasn't aware you were waiting for me."

Evelyn felt the heat rise to her cheeks under the unexpected attention, her typically composed demeanor faltering slightly.

Vivienne Laurent's eyes crinkled with warmth behind her designer sunglasses. "No need to apologize, darling. You've been working tirelessly tonight."

In a move that sent whispers through the crowd, the fashion icon draped an arm around Evelyn's shoulders with sisterly affection. "Everyone, do capture this moment for us."

Evelyn blinked in surprise.

The assembled guests collectively held their breath. Never in living memory had the notoriously aloof editor-in-chief of Éclat magazine voluntarily posed for photographs with anyone.

This simple gesture spoke volumes about Evelyn's rising status in high society.

Nearby, Cassandra Blackwood and Isabelle Montgomery's expressions darkened.

Isabelle, still standing awkwardly where she'd been rebuffed earlier, felt humiliation crawl up her spine like icy fingers.

Why? What mystical allure did Evelyn possess that drew influential figures to her like moths to flame? Isabelle couldn't comprehend the secret of her rival's magnetism.

The camera flashes illuminated Evelyn and Vivienne's smiling faces, their arms entwined.

Though Evelyn maintained perfect poise, her heart thrummed with exhilaration like a champagne bottle ready to pop.

In this single moment, she'd reclaimed every ounce of respect she'd lost earlier in the evening.

When the photo session concluded, Vivienne guided Evelyn to a quieter corner of the venue.

"Ms. Laurent, I can't thank you enough for what you just did."

Evelyn spoke with genuine gratitude. "As you witnessed, I encountered... difficulties tonight. Your public endorsement has restored my standing immeasurably."

She hesitated before adding, "I understand we're both invested in this event's success, so I appreciate you prioritizing the gala's reputation."

A self-deprecating smile touched Evelyn's lips. "Regardless of the reason, I'm deeply grateful."

"Ms. Carter," Vivienne corrected gently, removing her sunglasses to reveal earnest eyes, "my assistance has nothing to do with professional obligations."

Her expression softened with maternal affection. "Sebastian reached out to me. He asked that I look after you tonight and provide whatever support you might need."

Evelyn's breath caught in her throat.

Her overprotective brother strikes again. Even absent, Sebastian had woven an invisible safety net around her, anticipating every possible scenario.

But Vivienne's feelings for Sebastian were... complicated.

Evelyn thought wryly, 'Sebastian, you're fully aware of her decade-long crush on you, yet you're leveraging that affection for my benefit. How very ungentlemanly.'

"Ms. Carter, I'm aware Isabella Wang terminated her contract with you, which must have been devastating professionally."

Vivienne's tone turned serious as she adjusted her glasses. "Isabella and I go way back. I could speak with her about reinstating you as her wedding planner. Consider it my pleasure to help."

"Oh no, that's quite unnecessary!"

Evelyn waved her hands in protest. "You've already done more than enough. I couldn't possibly accept further favors!"

"Are you concerned about being indebted to me?"

Vivienne's laugh was light as she patted Evelyn's shoulder. "Darling, I expect nothing in return. Surely Sebastian mentioned my... feelings for him?"

Evelyn pressed her lips together, nodding vigorously.

"You're Sebastian's beloved sister - his most cherished family member." Vivienne's voice took on a dreamy quality. "Anyone precious to him becomes precious to me. Ten years I've loved him without expectation. Just being permitted to adore him from afar is gift enough."