Chapter 61
The grand ballroom doors swung open slowly.
Sebastian Valdemar extended his right arm slightly, his gaze signaling Evelyn Roland.
After a brief hesitation, she rested her delicate fingers lightly on his forearm.
They entered the venue side by side, instantly becoming the center of attention.
Under the crystal chandeliers, Evelyn's champagne-colored gown shimmered brilliantly.
Alexander Roland turned from the front row, his pupils contracting.
He never imagined his long-lost sister could possess such grace.
Without any pretension, her every movement exuded aristocratic refinement.
That innate elegance couldn't be cultivated in ordinary households.
"Is that Mr. Valdemar's companion?"
"I heard she's the designer of Shattered Stars."
"My God, she's so young and beautiful!"
"They look absolutely perfect together."
The whispers reached Isabella Langley's ears.
Her knuckles turned white as she clenched her wine glass.
Jealousy burned in her eyes like wildfire.
Even after being drenched in wine, Evelyn still managed to shine.
"Bitch. Let's see how long your moment lasts."
She downed the entire glass, the alcohol burning her throat.
The host took the stage, announcing the official start of the event.
"Please welcome Mr. Sebastian Valdemar, CEO of Valdemar Group."
Sebastian ascended the podium with measured steps.
Taking the microphone, he went straight to the point.
"Tonight's true star is Ms. Evelyn Roland, designer of Shattered Stars."
Spotlights suddenly illuminated Evelyn.
She raised her glass gracefully, her smile perfectly poised.
At the microphone, she delivered her speech flawlessly.
Every word crisp, every syllable precise.
Even Theodore Ashcroft in the corner couldn't help being impressed.
"Thank you all for listening."
Evelyn curtsied elegantly, her skirt blooming like flower petals.
In the shadows, Isabella's nails dug deep into her palms.
"The real show is about to begin."
Suddenly, a chorus of phone notifications erupted.
[Breaking News: Shattered Stars Accused of Plagiarism!]
[Valdemar's New Designs Leaked!]
Within minutes, trending lists were flooded with related hashtags.
The atmosphere in the ballroom shifted instantly.
Alexander stared at his phone screen, brow furrowed.
His gaze through gold-rimmed glasses turned complex as he looked at Evelyn on stage.
He'd witnessed her talent firsthand.
Yet the current situation forced him to doubt.
Was this coincidence... or carefully orchestrated deception?