Chapter 115

Isabella Langley was painting her nails at the vanity when the private investigator handed her a stack of photos.

Nathan Evans stood outside Evelyn Roland's dormitory, clutching roses with a nauseatingly fervent gaze.

"The Evans family?" Her lips curled in disdain.

This second-rate family from A-list society circles was a perfect match for that illegitimate brat.

She picked up her phone and texted her mother: Mom, I want to throw a birthday party.

At dinner, Isabella dutifully served Sophia Roland.

"Mom, I'd like to invite some colleagues and friends this year." She batted her eyelashes. "It's my first birthday since joining KL Design Group."

Sophia beamed. "Of course we'll host it! I'll book the best ballroom at The Ritz-Carlton."

Alexander Roland opened his mouth to protest, but a glare from Edward silenced him.

"Evelyn, you'll come too?" Isabella turned to her stepsister with honeyed sweetness.

Evelyn set down her chopsticks with a faint nod.

"I'll attend as a regular classmate."

She refused to publicly acknowledge the Rolands.

——

Theodore Ashcroft stood at the office door of Valdemar Galleria's penthouse, holding an embossed invitation.

"Mr. Valdemar, an invitation to Miss Langley's birthday gala."

Sebastian Valdemar didn't look up. "Trash it."

His attention remained fixed on the design draft Evelyn had just submitted. The woman never failed to surprise him—like this celestial gown design that captivated his gaze.

Eight more to go. His eyes narrowed.

——

At the Evans mansion, Nathan spun around the living room waving his invitation.

"Dad! The Rolands invited me!" His voice cracked with excitement. "I told you Miss Langley likes me!"

His parents immediately began preparing a million-dollar jade necklace as their gift.

——

The Ritz-Carlton glittered on the evening of the gala.

Isabella stood at the entrance in a scarlet gown, her smile as precisely measured as a protractor.

In a shadowed corner, Evelyn swirled her champagne flute absently.

"Evelyn?" Hannah Clementson squeezed through the crowd. "What are you doing here?"

Before Evelyn could answer, she spotted Nathan approaching with a triumphant grin.

A cold foreboding slithered down her spine.