Chapter 968

Evelyn arched a brow. Cassandra still expects me to sympathize with her revenge plot? How absurd.

A cold smirk curled her lips. "I understand perfectly."

Cassandra nodded, relief flashing in her eyes. "Good. Since Harrison refused, let's drop this matter. We'll move in the same circles—better to keep things civil."

Silence stretched between them. Beyond the doors, orchestral music swelled, but the alcove remained frozen in tension.

Evelyn studied Cassandra's carefully composed expression—then burst into laughter.

"Ms. Blake, I comprehend your underhanded tactics perfectly. But in our world, only the strong thrive." She stepped closer, voice dropping to a lethal whisper. "You stole my lover first. Peace? Don't delude yourself. Cherish what little happiness you have left—because in my domain, your suffering has only just begun."

The threat landed like a blade. Cassandra's composure cracked.

Her domain? Panic clawed up her throat. I thought becoming the long-lost heiress leveled the playing field. That social decorum would force her to tolerate me. But this city breathes for Evelyn Sinclair.

With a final mocking smile, Evelyn turned. Her stilettos struck the marble like gunshots—each step reverberating through Cassandra's ribs.

Hailey bounded after Evelyn, eyes shining with hero worship. "That was epic! You obliterated her without lifting a finger!"

Evelyn suppressed an eye-roll at the girl's vulgarity. "Just words. You could've said them."

Hailey shook her head vigorously. "And get my allowance cut for a month? No thanks. That viper runs straight to Daddy with crocodile tears."

Ah. A veteran of parental manipulation. Evelyn's lips twitched. Golden light from the ballroom haloed them as she murmured, "Then tread carefully."

Grumbling, Hailey pulled out her phone. "The video I took isn't viral-worthy, but it's decent blackmail. Want it?"

Evelyn considered, then retrieved her own device. "Send it."

As the file transferred, Hailey bit her lip. "You won't block me afterward, right?"

"Why would I?"

"YES!" Hailey fist-pumped. "Do you know how many socialites would kill for your contact?"

Evelyn barely resisted facepalming. Is this what fame feels like? With a noncommittal wave, she escaped toward the exit.

Fatigue weighed on her by event's end. Yet Harrison waited patiently—ever the dutiful subordinate, posture impeccable despite the hours.

"Let's go," she said brusquely. The confrontation had reshaped her plans.

One thing was certain: Cassandra Blake's reckoning would be spectacular.