Chapter 35

Jessica Rubinstein stumbled on the steps as her high heels caught the edge. She knew full well that if this deal fell through because of her loose tongue, the consequences would be unbearable.

Sebastian Valdemar stood beneath the streetlamp, his tall frame casting a long shadow. His lips parted, voice icy. "If you're going to apologize, direct it to the right person."

Following his gaze, the trio spotted Evelyn Roland waiting by the curb for a taxi. The night breeze lifted strands of her hair, softening the edges under the golden light.

Jessica dug her nails into her palms. Bowing to Evelyn was more bitter than swallowing a fly. But facing the Valdemar Group's formidable leader, she had no choice.

"I... I'm sorry." Jessica approached Evelyn, her hair falling forward to hide her contorted expression as she bowed.

Evelyn arched a brow in surprise. This woman, who had always been her adversary, now stood before her like a chastened schoolgirl.

"I spoke nonsense at the banquet earlier." Jessica's voice trembled. "I shouldn't have spread rumors about you and Mr. Valdemar."

A taxi's vacant light glowed as it pulled up. Evelyn opened the door, her gaze clear as she turned back. "Rumors die with the wise. Next time, try speaking with evidence."

As the taillights vanished around the corner, Sebastian's lips curved faintly. This woman was far more intriguing than he'd anticipated.

The shadows of plane trees flowed across the car window as they drove through the Beverly Hills estate. The moment Evelyn stepped out, Sophia Roland grabbed her arm. "Child, why take a taxi when we have cars at home?"

The garage gleamed with limited-edition sports cars, any one worth a fortune. Evelyn shook her head. "Taxis are more convenient."

She refused to reveal her identity. At KL Design Group, she was just an ordinary employee. She'd seen enough sycophantic smiles to last a lifetime.

"Fine, have it your way." Sophia lowered her voice. "If anyone at work bullies you, tell me immediately."

Upstairs, the curtains twitched violently. Isabella Langley gripped the fabric so tightly her nails nearly tore through. The harmonious scene below stabbed at her heart like a knife.

This sudden "sister" had stolen everything that should have been hers.