Chapter 157

Evelyn Sinclair took a slow sip of her coffee, savoring the rich aroma.

Her phone screen lit up with the notification of a massive transfer into her bank account. A satisfied smile curved her lips as she picked up the small handheld mirror.

She studied her reflection, fingers brushing lightly over the smooth skin where scars once marred her face. Even now, the faintest touch sent a phantom sting through her nerves.

Setting the mirror down, she straightened her posture, the elegant lines of her tailored suit accentuating her figure. Without hesitation, she stepped into the high-end boutique next door.

Meanwhile, the elite of Willowbrook gathered at the city’s most luxurious six-star hotel for an exclusive auction. The prize? A prime retail space in the heart of Diamond Boulevard.

Victoria Lancaster had coveted this location for months. She had dropped countless hints to Alexander Blackwood, hoping he would secure it for her.

After all, she had stolen Evelyn’s university design sketches and diary years ago. Even she couldn’t deny the brilliance of Evelyn’s work.

Though Eleanor Kingsley had entrusted her with two boutiques, Victoria remained unsatisfied.

Her ambition burned brighter—she would launch her own brand, dominate the industry, and crush every rising designer in her path.

Tonight, she would take the first step toward becoming an internationally renowned jewelry designer.

Victoria had spent hours perfecting her appearance. She wanted all eyes on her when she claimed victory.

More importantly, she wanted Alexander’s undivided attention.

Before leaving, she checked her phone again, frustration simmering when the perfumer still hadn’t replied about the aromatherapy kit.

Tonight’s success hinged on it.

Suppressing her irritation, she followed Alexander into the grand hall.

This was her moment. Surrounded by Willowbrook’s elite, she would shine.

Alexander looked devastatingly handsome in his custom black suit, his presence commanding the room effortlessly.

Victoria, draped in diamonds and an exquisite gown, walked beside him, her smile sweet and demure.

She basked in the envious glances from other women and the appreciative stares from men.

"Alexander, let’s sit here," she murmured, batting her lashes.

He withdrew his arm from her grip without a word.

If this hotel weren’t under his name, he wouldn’t have bothered attending.

The sudden emptiness in her grasp infuriated her, but she kept her mask in place.

The auction began, and Victoria settled beside him, preening.

Then, the crowd’s attention shifted.

All eyes turned toward the entrance.

Victoria’s smile faltered.

A slender, striking figure glided into the room, sunglasses perched elegantly on her face.

Victoria’s nails dug into her palms.

She recognized her instantly.

That woman from Golden Arches.

Alexander, who had been indifferent to the commotion, suddenly tensed.

His gaze locked onto the woman in the magnolia-white suit, his pulse quickening.

It was her.