Chapter 28

Jessica Rubinstein's words cut through Evelyn Roland like a sharp blade. The atmosphere shifted instantly as every gaze in the room turned judgmental and probing.

Even without makeup, Evelyn's face glowed with a pearlescent radiance under the lights. Such beauty inevitably invited speculation.

Nathan Evans' expression darkened immediately.

"Oh!" Jessica suddenly covered her mouth, feigning regret. "Evelyn, I just think trading favors for business deals is... unseemly. A woman should value herself more. Someone like Mr. Valdemar is out of your league."

Evelyn's fingers curled slowly into fists.

These relentless vultures.

"I don't recall ever doing such a thing."

A frigid voice spoke from behind Jessica, making her shiver violently.

When she turned, her eyes locked onto a face so flawlessly handsome it left her momentarily speechless.

"Answer me."

Sebastian Valdemar's voice snapped Jessica back to reality. His deep-set eyes churned with dangerous undercurrents.

"I—I only heard rumors..."

"So you're spreading lies?"

His tone grew colder. Jessica finally grasped the gravity of the situation and waved her hands frantically. "We were just chatting! I didn't mean to spread rumors!"

Sebastian's gaze darkened further.

"Lawyer."

The single word drained the color from Jessica's face. She reached for him, but he sidestepped her effortlessly.

"Mr. Valdemar, I was wrong! I'll never do it again! Please forgive me!"

Hannah Clementson watched from the crowd, her lips curling in satisfaction.

Sebastian had been dragged to dinner by Zachary Merouin. Spotting a commotion in the lobby, he'd approached—only to overhear his own "scandalous affair" being discussed. And of all people, Evelyn stood at the center.

Amusing.

He had no patience for theatrics. With a quick call, he summoned Adrienne Klein, head of KL Design's third department.

Adrienne, working late, rushed over immediately.

Evelyn had seen enough. She turned and headed for the restroom.

As Sebastian moved to leave, Nathan blocked his path.

"Mr. Valdemar! What an honor. Would you join us for dinner?"

Sebastian's patience had evaporated. He didn't even glance at Nathan. "Move."

Undeterred, Nathan extended a business card. "Here's my contact. Perhaps another time—"

Sebastian stepped around him without a word.

Nathan's outstretched hand hung awkwardly in the air, his face twisting like a spilled paint palette.