Chapter 259

Isabella Langley clung affectionately to Sophia Roland's arm, her gaze sweeping over Evelyn Roland before curling into a saccharine smile. "Mother has such impeccable taste. That gown by Adrienne Klein makes you absolutely radiant, sister."

She deliberately emphasized "Adrienne Klein," her eyes glinting with malice.

Evelyn lifted her gaze, meeting Isabella's stare with cool indifference.

"Thank you." She turned to Sophia and Edward Roland, her lips curving into a practiced smile. "Father, Mother, we should leave now."

The sharp click of her black stilettos echoed across the marble floor as she strode toward the exit without a backward glance.

Isabella's nails dug into her palms as she watched that slender figure retreat.

She had begged Adrienne for that dress for three months—only for Evelyn to waltz in wearing it. And that diamond bracelet on Evelyn's wrist? A limited-edition piece personally designed by Alexander Roland.

Why?

Why did this interloper get everything Isabella had ever wanted?

"Isabella?" Sophia gasped. "Your hand—"

Isabella snapped back to reality, realizing she'd left red marks on Sophia's arm.

"Forgive me, Mother!" She released her grip instantly, her expression morphing into one of pitiful distress. "I... I'm just nervous."

Sophia patted her hand sympathetically. "You don't have to attend if you're unwell."

"No, I want to go." Isabella's smile returned, sweet as poisoned honey, her eyes glinting with something darker.

She wouldn't miss tonight's spectacle for the world.

The Valdemar gala was held at the city's most opulent hotel.

Crystal chandeliers bathed the ballroom in blinding light, while towers of champagne flutes refracted dazzling prisms across the room. The elite mingled, their polite laughter masking the undercurrents of rivalry and ambition.

Isabella's gaze cut through the crowd, zeroing in on Evelyn standing alone in a corner.

Her crimson lips curved. Plucking two champagne flutes from a passing waiter's tray, she glided toward her target.