Chapter 116

Evelyn had lunch with Abigail in the staff cafeteria.

Yvette only arrived at work after their lunch break had ended.

"Sorry, I bought a tie for my boyfriend yesterday. The traffic was terrible when I delivered it to him this morning, and then again on my way here," Yvette announced to her colleagues, settling into her seat with a smug smile.

Evelyn glanced up at her.

Abigail discreetly texted Evelyn: What's the deal with Yvette?

Not wanting to stir unnecessary drama, Evelyn replied honestly: Dominic's mother adores her and treats her like a future daughter-in-law. But I don't know the specifics of her family background.

Abigail read the message and shot Evelyn a surprised look.

Evelyn returned to her work without another word.

A moment later, realization dawned on Abigail. She turned back to observe Yvette, who was now idly examining her manicure. What an airhead, Abigail thought. No way someone like Dominic would ever fall for her.

She was certain that as long as Dominic had functioning eyes, he'd never marry a spoiled rich girl like Yvette.

Work finally ended.

A little past five, the department filed out behind their manager, heading toward the exit.

Abigail ushered Evelyn into her car.

As she buckled her seatbelt, Abigail glanced outside. "If we hadn't moved fast, I bet Yvette would've come over. Not for me, though—for you."

Evelyn followed her gaze.

Sure enough, Yvette had been approaching, but when she saw Evelyn getting into Abigail's car, she scowled and turned back toward her own vehicle.

"Be careful," Abigail warned. "Don't let that entitled princess manipulate you."

Evelyn nodded.

They had barely driven off when Abigail's phone rang.

"Hello?" she answered through her Bluetooth headset.

"Abigail, is Evelyn with you? Turn around. The venue we booked got canceled. Ms. Prescott reserved a more upscale place. I’ll send you the new address."

The manager hung up.

A moment later, Abigail checked the message and grinned. "Well, well. Our little rich girl is feeling generous. We’re going to the most exclusive private club in the city!"

She made a U-turn at the intersection.

"Order the most expensive thing on the menu when we get there," Abigail told Evelyn. "Might as well enjoy it. In seven years at this company, this is the first time I’ve gotten this lucky."

At the club, Abigail parked and they headed inside.

Each department had their own private room, and the assigned locations had been texted to everyone.

Abigail and Evelyn made their way upstairs to their designated space.

Yvette had arrived long before them and was already holding court with a group of younger female colleagues.

"You all seem so sweet and innocent," Yvette was saying, sipping her water. "When I was studying abroad, I met so many gold-diggers. They’d dress up and crash parties just to 'accidentally' bump into wealthy heirs. Always wearing knockoff bags and cheap clothes." She sighed dramatically. "But I never exposed them."

One of the girls gushed, "Yvette, you’re so kind! I would’ve called them out immediately."

Yvette smiled sweetly. "Then there’s the worst kind—the ones who pretend to be simple. They wear jeans and no makeup, acting all innocent, just to trick some clueless rich guy into falling for them."

"Seriously?" someone gasped.

"Of course," Yvette said, her gaze flicking pointedly toward Evelyn.

Abigail, listening from the sofa, narrowed her eyes. Years in the corporate world had sharpened her instincts—Yvette was clearly targeting Evelyn.

"If a simple girl catches a rich man’s eye, it means she has something special," Abigail cut in, moving to sit beside Yvette.

Yvette scoffed. "Special? Please. When two people come from completely different worlds, the only thing she could possibly offer is a pretty face."

Abigail smirked. "Funny how natural beauty is so rare these days. Must be frustrating for those who need layers of makeup to look presentable."

Yvette’s face darkened.

She clenched her jaw and stayed silent.

The manager, a woman who preferred to stay out of petty squabbles, ignored the exchange. She had no interest in mediating between Abigail and Yvette—especially since Yvette’s family connections made her untouchable.

Instead, she picked up a microphone. "Everyone, listen up!"

The music was too loud for normal conversation.

"Where are the drinks? We’re running low!" she called out.

Nathan stood. "I’ll get them. I’ll ask the waiters to bring enough glasses too."

The manager nodded approvingly. She appreciated efficiency.

Nathan counted heads and left.

Five minutes later, waiters filed in with trays of champagne.

Glasses were distributed.

The manager gave a short speech—mostly about welcoming Yvette. Her tone made it clear Yvette was someone important, though she carefully avoided specifics.

Flattered, Yvette smiled demurely.

She already had plans. Once she secured her position—and Dominic—the first person she’d eliminate was Abigail.

Anyone who sided with Evelyn was an enemy.

The manager also acknowledged Evelyn and Nathan for their good performance during their first month.

"Let’s toast!" she announced.

Glasses clinked.

After finishing her drink, the manager laughed. "Enjoy yourselves! And again, thank Yvette for this generous treat."

Meanwhile, at Blackwood Manor...

At the dinner table, Julian leaned toward Dominic. "I heard the design department’s party involves heavy drinking tonight. Aren’t you worried Evelyn might drink too much and that scumbag Nathan will take advantage?"