Chapter 837

Evelyn could see the wariness in Isabella's eyes. If Donovan Pierce offered to drive her home, it would be like walking straight into a trap.

Isabella wanted nothing to do with him. The contract wasn’t signed—why bother playing nice anymore?

Not a chance.

"No, thanks," Isabella said smoothly, linking her arm with Evelyn’s. "We’ve all had a bit too much tonight. Let’s just head back separately."

She flashed a polite smile before turning to the guests inside, offering quick apologies. Then, with a sharp nod to her assistant, she grabbed her coat and strode out.

The moment they stepped outside, Evelyn noticed the forced smile on Isabella’s face. Something was off.

Before she could ask, Alexander Sterling emerged behind them.

Isabella’s expression shifted instantly.

Then Evelyn saw her—the woman standing just behind Alexander.

Soft features, elegant poise, radiating warmth.

"Amelia?"

Alexander’s usual icy demeanor melted as he turned, offering his hand to help her down the steps.

The way they looked at each other—like the rest of the world didn’t exist.

Isabella’s face drained of color.

Evelyn frowned, trying to place the woman. She looked familiar, but—

"Don’t you remember?" Isabella forced a laugh, though her voice was tight. "Amelia Sinclair. The most popular girl in school, two years above us."

Ah. Right.

Evelyn barely recalled her.

Alexander shot her an amused look. "Your memory’s not as sharp as Isabella’s."

Amelia was effortlessly graceful, her smile warm and genuine.

"I lost the 'most popular' title the second Evelyn transferred in," she teased lightly. "We were all busy with graduation—no surprise if you don’t remember me."

Evelyn smiled back, but her attention flickered to Isabella. The way her shoulders slumped, the quiet devastation in her eyes.

She had always loved Alexander. Never said it. Never acted on it.

And now, this.

Evelyn cleared her throat. "So, you came for Amelia? I thought you were here to pick me up."

Alexander rolled his eyes. "Get in the car."

He opened the passenger door for Amelia, his touch lingering just a second too long.

Isabella stood frozen.

Evelyn’s chest ached for her.

"Alexander, my driver’s waiting. I’ll take Isabella home—I need to grab something from her place anyway. You two go ahead."

A flicker of irritation crossed his face.

Amelia leaned out the window, grinning. "Evelyn, your brother’s about to lose his temper."

Alexander sighed, tapping her forehead affectionately. "I don’t have the patience for kids."

Then, without another word, he got in the car and drove off.

Evelyn turned.

Isabella’s eyes were red.

She didn’t know what to say.