Chapter 182

"If it's as she claimed—that she was merely speaking to Evelyn but got attacked—then there's absolutely no reason why Madam Nora, who was just an observer at the time, would stand up for someone so unreasonable. Looking at it this way, it's far more plausible that Vivian was the one who provoked them first."

"Aunt, I—I wouldn't lie to you."

"Hmph, I'll find out soon enough whether you're lying, Vivian. If you dare hide anything from me, or worse, deceive me, I won't let you off easily—not even if you're Miranda's daughter."

If my sister truly gave birth to such a conniving girl, I'd rather not take her in at all!

Vivian's panic surged, her heart twisting with resentment.

How did things spiral out of control like this?!

Meanwhile, Evelyn escorted Madam Nora to the lobby of Nora Tower.

Madam Nora clasped Evelyn's hand warmly. "I truly enjoyed having you accompany me for tea today, dear."

Since Madam Nora had no children of her own, she found herself growing increasingly fond of Evelyn—a kindred spirit who shared her passion for exquisite jewelry.

Evelyn smiled softly. "If you'd like tea in the future, I'd be happy to brew it for you myself. No need to spend a fortune at a hotel."

"My dear, if you weren't so determined to build your own empire, I would’ve insisted you join Taylor Jewelry."

"Where's the challenge in that?" Evelyn countered playfully.

If I wanted my designs to dominate the global stage, aligning with Taylor Jewelry would be the fastest route. With their prestige, my work would gain international acclaim effortlessly.

Madam Nora admired the young woman’s humility.

She never flaunted her identity as Zara, nor did she exploit her connection to Mr. Goldmann to secure a partnership. She stands on her own—that’s what I respect most about her.

Just then, Madam Nora’s assistant hurried over, whispering urgently in her ear. After a brief exchange, Madam Nora nodded. "Understood."

"Madam Nora, it seems you have pressing matters. I’ll take my leave now."

"Of course, dear." Madam Nora smiled warmly.

Back in her office, Evelyn found Nathan lounging on the sofa, flipping through a jewelry magazine. He had clearly been waiting for her.

Without glancing up, he remarked, "Madam Nora seems quite taken with you."

His wife had been gone for hours, leaving him impatient.

What can I do? My wife is just too charming.

Evelyn arched a brow. "Maintaining a good relationship with Madam Nora isn’t a bad thing. By the way, have you been here all this time?"

Nathan shut the magazine and lifted his gaze. "Yes, waiting for you. I spoke with your father."

Evelyn froze. "Please tell me you didn’t mention that to him."

"Everything except the de Armas situation," he replied smoothly.

Meaning, aside from Miranda’s true lineage, Nathan had revealed Vivian’s schemes to Richard.

Nathan set the magazine aside and rose, closing the distance between them. "Aren’t you curious how Vivian convinced the Laurent family she was Miranda’s daughter?"

Evelyn frowned.

True. What evidence did Vivian present to make them believe her? And more importantly—why hasn’t she been exposed yet?

Vivian was already traveling with the Laurents during the auction, meaning she’s been impersonating me for a long time.

"Did your mother leave anything behind?" Nathan asked abruptly.

Evelyn stiffened, recalling Richard’s recent call—he had been sorting through Miranda’s belongings.