Chapter 180

Madam Nora nodded thoughtfully. She had heard rumors about Penelope's scandal, but never imagined it was orchestrated by Vivian.

"Tsk," Madam Nora clicked her tongue disapprovingly. "The Laurent family has truly lost their senses, protecting a thief who bullies you. Lillian's judgment worsens with age!"

Evelyn remained silent.

The Laurents were aiding Vivian because she'd fabricated her identity.

Never had Evelyn anticipated Vivian would dare claim to be Miranda's daughter. Clearly, she believed Richard remained unaware of her true parentage.

"But fret not," Madam Nora assured, patting Evelyn's hand. "Taylor Jewelry values true talent above all. Even if the Laurents demanded it, I wouldn't comply."

Relief washed over Evelyn. Other jewelry houses might cower before the Laurent family's influence, but Taylor stood firm.

Evelyn's lips curved into a grateful smile. "Madam, your integrity sets you apart from the rest."

After their afternoon tea, they departed the private suite together.

Evelyn guided Madam Nora's wheelchair through the elegant corridors, engaged in pleasant conversation, trailed by discreet attendants and security.

Then Evelyn's expression darkened as Vivian came into view.

Vivian halted abruptly, shock flashing across her features. "You?" Her gaze darted to the elderly woman in the wheelchair. The same woman who'd once ejected her from Taylor's flagship store.

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "This establishment doesn't belong to you. My presence here is none of your concern."

Vivian trembled with suppressed rage before remembering her advantage. She crossed her arms with a venomous smirk. "Desperate, aren't you? Clinging to Taylor now that your pathetic little company crumbles."

She turned to Madam Nora with false sweetness. "Old woman, aren't you afraid of Laurent retaliation for harboring this trash?"

Vivian's eyes glittered maliciously, already envisioning Evelyn's complete social annihilation when no one dared associate with her.

A female bodyguard stepped forward, voice icy. "Mind your tongue."

Madam Nora raised a restraining hand, studying Vivian with amused disdain. "Ah, I recognize you. The uncouth creature who caused that disgraceful scene at our Fifth Avenue location."

"Uncouth?!" Vivian's face flushed crimson. How dare this relic insult her!

"The Laurents must be blind indeed," Madam Nora continued conversationally, "to champion such an ill-mannered gutter rat."

Evelyn couldn't suppress a laugh.

"Pay her no mind, Madam," Evelyn said lightly. "Poor upbringing explains the vulgar display."

Vivian's nails dug into her palms. "You'll regret this! Neither Nathan nor this decrepit hag can protect you forever!"

Before Evelyn could respond, Madam Nora chuckled. "Ten Laurents couldn't make me blink, child. Fetch Lillian yourself—let's see what she dares do to me."

Vivian gaped. Was this senile woman truly so fearless?

"Madam speaks truth," Evelyn purred, crimson lips curling. "I'm curious what threats the Laurents have prepared. Why not take me to them now?"

Vivian paled, fists clenched so tightly her knuckles whitened.