Chapter 396

"Mom, this isn't your fault." Alexander Roland gently stroked his mother's hand. "Isabella received far more affection than Evelyn growing up, yet she..."

He paused, suppressing the irritation in his chest.

"Evelyn spent the least time in the Roland family, yet she's the most sensible." Pride colored his tone.

At the mention of Evelyn Roland, Sophia Roland's eyes welled with grateful tears. "We failed that child. Her composure today puts me to shame."

In that vast conference hall filled with business tycoons, a single glance from her had commanded the room.

Outsiders might call her cold and unyielding.

But to the Rolands, this was exactly how a daughter of their house should carry herself.

The helm of Château Blanc demanded such decisive authority.

In the monastery courtyard, the monks gathered.

Abbot Xingyun's expression was grave. "Everyone witnessed the incident with Cloud Summit and Cloud Spirit. As abbot, I bear responsibility."

His stern gaze swept over them. "From today onward, monastery rules will be strictly enforced. Any violators will be expelled immediately!"

The monks stood frozen in silence.

Cloud Summit and his companion had been arrogant troublemakers. Their expulsion brought quiet relief to many.

Several monks silently thanked Evelyn in their hearts.

The blessing ceremony neared its end.

What should have been a highly anticipated event had lost its luster for the businessmen after the disruptions.

The final day's charity auction proceeded as scheduled.

The meditation hall was packed.

"Patron Evelyn."

Abbot Xingyun had been waiting under the eaves.

"Abbot." Evelyn gave a slight nod.

Sebastian Valdemar stepped forward naturally, positioning himself at her side.

Understanding flashed in the abbot's eyes as he moved aside.

Evelyn glanced at Sebastian but said nothing.

Scarlett Galatea caught the exchange.

Her grip tightened on her clutch, nails digging into her palms.

By the time she entered, the prime seats were already taken.

She could only sit far behind Sebastian, staring at his straight-backed silhouette.

These past two days, she'd used all her connections to investigate him—only to uncover mere public records.

The more enigmatic he remained, the more she longed to conquer him.

Five minutes until the auction began.

Isabella Langley and Oliver Valrose were still nowhere to be seen.

Abbot Xingyun checked his watch repeatedly as murmurs spread among the guests.