Chapter 31

The woman standing before me was the epitome of elegance—Eleanor Kingsley, a refined socialite from Willowbrook’s elite circles.

After a few interactions, Evelyn Sinclair had learned that Eleanor was also known as Mrs. Montgomery, one of the four most influential matriarchs in the city.

Strangely, Evelyn always felt an inexplicable warmth whenever she spoke with Eleanor.

The Montgomerys controlled vast assets, and Eleanor personally oversaw their jewelry empire.

She had been impressed with Evelyn’s initial design drafts.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Eleanor had invited Evelyn to her home on the day the final designs were due.

Upon arrival, Evelyn realized it was no ordinary visit—today was Sophia Montgomery’s 24th birthday.

The realization struck her like a bolt. Today was her birthday too.

Watching Sophia, who had been coddled like royalty since birth, Evelyn couldn’t help the pang of envy that twisted inside her.

She had never known a parent’s love. And when fate finally granted her the chance to be a mother, it had been cruelly snatched away.

Her chest tightened, but she inhaled deeply and forced a smile.

None of that mattered now. She needed to earn $30,000 for her grandfather’s surgery.

Just as she moved to wish Sophia a happy birthday, a familiar figure stepped into view—Victoria Lancaster.

Dressed in a dazzling gown, her makeup flawless, Victoria clung to Sophia’s arm, snapping selfies with practiced ease.

Evelyn hadn’t expected them to be friends.

She turned to leave, but Victoria’s voice stopped her cold.

"Evelyn! I thought I was imagining things." Victoria’s tone dripped with false sweetness. "What are you doing here?"

Evelyn met her gaze icily. "None of your business."

Victoria’s lips curved into a smirk. "Oh, but it is my business. You’re my sister, and this is my best friend’s party. Everyone here is someone. What if you pull another stunt like last time? How would that reflect on me?"

Evelyn scoffed. "Sister? Please. I don’t recall having a sister who’d betray her own flesh and blood for a man."

Victoria’s smile faltered, her composure cracking.

Sophia sauntered over, head to toe in designer labels. Beside Evelyn’s modest attire, she shone like a diamond.

Her eyes flicked over Evelyn with disdain.

"Vicky, is this her? The shameless one?"

Evelyn stiffened. So, Victoria had been spreading poison about her.

Sophia smirked. "Vicky’s too kind. But honestly, how did trash like you get an invite?"

Evelyn held up her portfolio. "Your mother invited me, Miss Montgomery."

Sophia and Victoria exchanged startled glances.

Just then, Eleanor emerged. Sophia whispered something in her ear, and Evelyn saw the shift—the warmth in Eleanor’s eyes vanished, replaced by cold dismissal.

Still, Evelyn forced a polite smile. "Mrs. Montgomery, I’ve brought the final designs."

Eleanor’s voice was glacial. "Leave, Miss Sinclair. I won’t be needing your services. Keep the deposit—consider it compensation for your wasted time. But do not contact me again. I won’t have Montgomery Jewelry tainted by someone like you."