Chapter 172

The morning sun cast long shadows as Cassandra Blake launched her vicious campaign to ruin Evelyn Carter's reputation. But by afternoon, the tables had turned dramatically.

It was Cassandra who stood exposed, her secret affair with Reginald Stewart laid bare for all to see.

Jonathan Reeves cleared his throat, turning to Natalie Chambers at the reception desk. "Get someone to clean up the lobby. There's not much left to do here. Everyone can head home early today."

Within minutes, the studio emptied, leaving only Jonathan and Evelyn behind.

Evelyn lifted her gaze, regret lacing her voice. "Now that the truth is out, I've caused trouble for the studio."

"I never doubted you, Evelyn. I just never expected Cassandra to be capable of something like this."

Jonathan's expression darkened. "The studio will issue a termination notice soon. It's getting late—let's grab dinner after we wrap this up."

"Alright."

Evelyn couldn't refuse. Not after everything Jonathan had done for her today.

Soon, Jonathan retreated to his office to finalize the paperwork.

Alone at her desk, Evelyn opened her laptop and pulled up the incriminating photos and videos she had anonymously posted.

The comment section buzzed with reactions—shock, outrage, disbelief.

Seeing Cassandra's downfall unfold, Evelyn decided to delete the posts.

But it was too late. The damage was done. The scandal had already spread like wildfire.

Then, she stumbled upon a trending post from a major media outlet:

"Evelyn Carter was the victim of a jealous colleague who fabricated lies to tarnish her reputation. The truth has now emerged, exposing the real culprit behind the smear campaign."

Evelyn clicked on it, reading the detailed breakdown of the false accusations.

Yet, it failed to mention the others who had conspired with Cassandra.

Another headline caught her eye:

"A top law firm in Nord City has filed a lawsuit against the CEO and family of a prominent construction company, demanding a public apology for defaming Evelyn Carter."

Evelyn's breath hitched.

That was Nathaniel Whitmore's firm.

Her brothers had rallied behind her.

A warmth spread through her chest.

This—this was what family felt like.

An hour later, Jonathan emerged from his office. "Evelyn, we need to stop by the police station to finalize the report."

"Let's go."

Gratitude swelled in her heart. Jonathan had stood by her from the start, even reporting the matter to the police.

Now, she was determined to see this through with him.

By the time they left the station, night had fallen.

As Jonathan drove, he glanced at her. "Any cravings for dinner?"

"Anything's fine. Let's just pick somewhere close."

Exhaustion weighed on her. All she wanted was to go home and rest.

Thirty minutes later, Jonathan parked outside a restaurant.

Turning to her, he hesitated. "Evelyn… did you hire a lawyer?"

She met his gaze, understanding his unspoken question.

"My brother works at that firm. When he heard about the accusations, he stepped in."

Jonathan frowned. "But I thought you were an orphan?"

"I was. But I've found my family now."

"Really? That's incredible. Are they from Nord City?"

Evelyn nodded. "Yes."

"Impressive. Having a brother at such a prestigious firm speaks volumes. Your biological family must be well-off compared to your adoptive one."

He smiled. "You seem happier lately."

"Thank you."

She was happier.

Stepping into the restaurant, she froze.

A familiar figure sat at a corner table.

The world really was too small.