Chapter 60

Evelyn Roland's fingertips lightly brushed over the wine-stained hem of her dress, a cold smirk playing on her lips.

She lifted her gaze, scanning the crowd until her eyes landed on a familiar face—one adorned with flawless makeup.

Isabella Langley stood nearby, champagne flute in hand, her eyes gleaming with malicious delight.

"My apologies, miss..." The waiter's trembling hand offered her a napkin.

Evelyn accepted it, dabbing at the stain with deliberate slowness. The red wine had spread across the pale fabric like an ugly, blooming flower.

"Evelyn, how careless of you," Isabella cooed, her voice dripping with false sweetness as she approached. "You're about to give your speech, too."

Her nails dug into her palms.

How dare this country bumpkin get the chance to speak at the Valdemar event? Just because of that fluke "Shattered Stars" design?

Evelyn didn't even spare her a glance, striding straight toward the restroom.

Across the ballroom, Theodore Ashcroft leaned in. "Mr. Valdemar, Miss Roland's dress—"

"Send the spare," Sebastian Valdemar replied, his gaze fixed on Evelyn's retreating figure.

The restroom lights were harsh and unforgiving.

Evelyn frowned at her reflection. The wine had seeped deep into the fabric, leaving a sprawling stain at her waist.

"Miss Roland?" A female manager knocked before entering, holding an elegant box. "From Mr. Valdemar."

Inside lay a pink fringed gown, its waistline adorned with dazzling diamonds that caught the light.

After a brief hesitation, she changed into it.

The transformation was instant. The fringes swayed with her movements, the diamonds scattering light like stars. The dress hugged her curves perfectly—most surprisingly, it concealed the scar at her waist.

When she reentered the ballroom, Sebastian stood at the entrance.

His gaze lingered.

"It suits you," he murmured, his voice low.

Evelyn tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, her expression calm. "Thank you. Though if not for that speech, I'd rather leave now."

Sebastian arched a brow but said nothing. His eyes never left her.