Chapter 108

Evelyn's words carried a clear message - Penelope held no real influence here as a mere guest.

Penelope's gaze swept across the murmuring crowd, realization dawning on her.

She folded her arms defiantly. "Which family do you represent?"

Evelyn merely shrugged, offering no response.

Vivian stepped forward, chin lifted. "We're the Vanderbilts. She's my sister."

The Vanderbilt name carried its own weight in certain circles.

Evelyn massaged her temples. While the Vanderbilts had wealth, they weren't considered true elites. Why would Vivian announce it so boldly?

"Vanderbilts?" Penelope's laughter rang hollow. "Which Vanderbilts? I've never heard of you."

Perfect. Vivian had walked straight into a trap.

The whispers grew louder. "Vanderbilts? The Viana Jewelry Vanderbilts?"

Penelope covered her mouth in mock surprise. "Viana Jewelry? That insignificant boutique? You're nothing compared to La Pe."

Vivian's lips trembled as she bit down hard.

Then her expression shifted, adopting a wounded dignity. "Ms. Santiago, Viana was founded by Evelyn's mother. Your insults dishonor her late parent."

Evelyn's eyes narrowed. Was Vivian trying to redirect the spotlight onto her? Not happening.

Evelyn feigned shock. "That was years ago. Viana belongs entirely to you now. If the company's reputation suffers, shouldn't you, as current owner, take responsibility?"

She continued smoothly, "Besides, you're the celebrated designer now - the prodigy who mastered complex techniques overnight. Truly remarkable."

Gregory nearly choked on his drink at Evelyn's words.

He approached Penelope. "Ms. Santiago, surely none of La Pe's designers could produce such... innovative work with so little training?"

Penelope gave Vivian a sidelong glance.

Vivian's hands clenched into fists. How dare they mock her!

"I-I never claimed..." Her voice quivered with manufactured tears, painting Penelope as the bully.

Penelope's expression darkened further. She glared at Evelyn. "Are you trying to provoke me?"

She laughed sharply. "Honestly, I couldn't care less about Viana or your little jewelry venture. You couldn't even secure a collaboration with Taylor. Why bother staying in this industry?"

"The host must have lowered their standards considerably to invite you. Did you sneak in through the service entrance?"

Gregory stepped forward. "Ms. Santiago, mind your words. We entered through the main doors like everyone else."

"Prove it," Penelope demanded. "Show me your invitations. I want to see why they'd bother with you."

Gregory remained unimpressed. "Such pettiness. What would your father think of this behavior?"

Evelyn added dryly, "She's never concerned about consequences. Daddy always cleans up her messes."

The taunts finally broke Penelope's composure. She lunged at Evelyn, shoving her violently. "Shut your mouth!"

The sudden attack caught Evelyn off-balance. The crowd gasped collectively.

Vivian hid a triumphant smile.

Evelyn stumbled backward toward the precarious tower of champagne glasses and crystal decanters.