Chapter 81

Evelyn Sinclair felt the weight of injustice pressing down on her. Would Alexander ever truly feel remorse?

Even if he did, it was far too late now.

The office buzzed with activity as Evelyn adjusted to her new surroundings. Her coworkers had been welcoming, even planning a small welcome lunch for the newest team member.

Just as lunchtime arrived and discussions turned to meal choices, Catherine Winslow strode into the room.

The department head was stunningly beautiful, her designer outfit accentuating her youthful figure. She clapped sharply for attention. "We've just landed a major client - influencer Scarlett Hartley is getting engaged. She's commissioned Blackwood Enterprises to design matching rings, a necklace, and bracelet."

A collective gasp filled the room when Catherine revealed the ten-million-dollar budget. "Success means a 10% bonus for our department."

Murmurs of excitement rippled through the staff. Evelyn's heart raced - jewelry design had always been her passion, ever since Alexander first introduced her to the craft.

"Cancel your lunch plans," Catherine continued. "We have one month. Project details are in your inboxes."

The promise of bonuses made everyone compliant. Evelyn, not particularly hungry, opened her email immediately.

Before she could read the specifications, Catherine approached. "Evelyn Sinclair?" she asked pointedly.

Evelyn stood quickly. "Yes, Ms. Winslow?"

"So it is you." Catherine's assessing gaze traveled from Evelyn's shoes to her hairline.

Evelyn maintained her professional smile despite growing discomfort. After an uncomfortably long pause, Catherine asked loudly, "Is it true you served three years for plagiarism?"

The office fell deathly silent.

Twenty pairs of eyes turned toward Evelyn simultaneously.

In the design world, plagiarism was the ultimate sin. Evelyn could feel her colleagues' attitudes shifting instantly.

"I never plagiarized," Evelyn stated calmly, though her hands trembled slightly.

"Then why were you convicted?" Catherine arched a perfectly shaped eyebrow. "No matter. You're lucky to have connections, but know this - I have zero tolerance for intellectual theft. Step out of line, and you're gone."

With that final warning, Catherine turned sharply and clicked away in her designer heels.

Evelyn stood frozen, feeling the weight of suspicious stares. The injustice burned in her chest.

Just when she'd found hope, fate seemed determined to snatch it away.

Needing air, Evelyn moved toward the exit. As she reached the door, she froze.

Eleanor Kingsley stood before her.

Despite their complicated history involving Victoria, Evelyn felt an unexpected warmth toward the older woman. "Mrs. Kingsley," she greeted politely.

Eleanor's reaction was immediate and violent. Her hand connected sharply with Evelyn's cheek.

The resounding slap echoed through the suddenly silent office as colleagues rushed to witness the spectacle.