Chapter 477

Evelyn glanced at the photos on Bernadette's phone.

A cold laugh escaped her lips. "This is what you wanted to show me? Some poorly edited pictures? Do you honestly believe that's me in those photos? With today's deepfake technology, anyone can create fake evidence. The article itself is riddled with factual errors. Are you really that naive?"

As Bernadette fumbled with her phone, searching for a comeback, Evelyn continued sharply. "Haven't you noticed something else? Every account sharing that trash article got suspended. Can you even open the link now? No. Know why? Because it's libelous slander. Mr. Blackwood already filed legal complaints. Anyone spreading this nonsense will face consequences."

Olivia glared at Bernadette, then at the eavesdropping male colleague.

Bernadette's pulse quickened. Panic set in.

She'd heard from Vivienne that Evelyn had publicly rejected Dominic's proposal, humiliating the Blackwood family. Given Dominic's ruthless reputation, Bernadette assumed Evelyn would be discarded immediately. That's why she'd dared to confront her so boldly.

She never expected Dominic would still protect Evelyn after the scandal. Had she known, she wouldn't have opened her big mouth.

The male colleague was sweating bullets too.

Considered handsome with decent design skills, he enjoyed playing hard-to-get with female coworkers. He'd thought Evelyn was pure - discovering her alleged promiscuity intrigued him. He'd even considered offering money for her services.

Now realizing his boss still defended her despite the rumors, he regretted speaking up. It had taken years to climb the corporate ladder. One careless comment could ruin everything.

Other colleagues silently thanked their restraint.

Until facts emerged, silence was safest.

Though frightened, Bernadette wasn't done. Her voice softened but dripped venom. "How pretentious! Everyone knows you came from nothing. Who wouldn't believe you sold yourself abroad? Need me to connect you with some wealthy clients again, Evelyn?"

She turned to the male employees. "Next time you're... in need, why go elsewhere? We've got our own department whore. Cleaner and cheaper than streetwalkers!"

Several jealous female coworkers burst into laughter.

Evelyn had joined later but outperformed them in looks and skills. She blocked their promotions. Seeing her humiliated delighted them.

The men exchanged lewd glances but stayed silent, not wanting trouble.

Only Gregory spoke up. "Do you actually believe tabloid trash, Bernadette? If it were true, why was it deleted? We've worked with Evelyn long enough to know her character. Judging someone from edited photos is beyond immature."

Bernadette flushed with anger. "Defending her, Gregory? Didn't know you two were so close. Or is there something more between—"

Evelyn slammed design files onto the desk. "Enough!" Her voice cut like ice. "Spread one more libelous word, Bernadette Worthing, and we'll settle this in court. Section 246 of the Criminal Code imposes three years for defamation through fabricated facts. Have personal issues with me? Say it to my face. But slander me again, and my lawyer will handle you."

Her commanding tone reminded everyone of Dominic Blackwood himself. Bernadette shut her mouth.

"Hmph, I didn't make it up! Blame that Rita woman!" Bernadette shot Evelyn a nervous glance before barking at gawking employees. "What are you staring at? Back to work!"

She scurried to her office like a frightened mouse.

The gossip died instantly. Work resumed.

Evelyn massaged her temples, forcing calm. Anger wasn't good for the baby.

Olivia and Abigail comforted her until she relaxed. She turned her focus to architect certification materials.

Though holding a master's in engineering economics, she lacked the required two years' experience, including one year managing construction projects.

After nearly a year at T Corporation overseeing designs and projects, she'd qualify in two months.

The certification was invaluable - only 400,000 certified architects existed nationally. It was essential for advancing at T Corporation.

After work...

Dominic drove Evelyn home, brushing his lips against her cheek. "Sorry, I have to go out. You and the kids eat first. I won't be late."

She knew it was another "date" with Lillian. Agony twisted her heart, but she forced a smile, straightening his tie. "Alright. Come home soon."