Chapter 200

"Evelyn, the client specifically requested you to lead the Mael Neighborhood Project."

"They adore your impeccable taste and attention to detail."

"Understood. I'll head to the studio now." Evelyn ended the call, adjusting her face mask nervously.

She couldn't risk being recognized by her adoptive parents.

Jonathan raised an eyebrow at her disguise. "Undercover mission, Ms. Carter?"

"Just being cautious. Email me the project updates later. I'll review everything thoroughly."

No sooner had she settled at her workstation than the studio doors burst open violently.

"Evelyn Carter!"

The shrill voice made Evelyn's head snap up.

Cassandra Blake stood there, a far cry from her usual polished self.

Her designer clothes were replaced by wrinkled garments, her hair unkempt as if she hadn't showered in days.

Evelyn set aside her sketches. "Can I help you with something?"

Jonathan immediately stepped between them. "Ms. Blake, you were terminated. Any trouble here won't be tolerated."

Cassandra's face twisted with rage. "How could you do this, Jonathan? What about your promises that night? You swore you'd take responsibility!"

A shadow crossed his face before he calmly replied, "I never made such promises."

"You liar! We slept together!" she screamed.

"Everyone knows the truth, Cassandra," he snapped. "You framed Evelyn. You brought this on yourself."

Had he known she was a gold digger, he would never have touched her. He'd even gotten tested afterward.

Suddenly, Cassandra collapsed to her knees before Evelyn, tears streaming. "I was wrong! Please forgive me!"

Evelyn blinked in shock. The confrontation had taken an unexpected turn.

She glanced around suspiciously, half-expecting hidden cameras.

With Penelope's influence, Evelyn knew to proceed carefully.

The Blake family's company had declared bankruptcy, leaving them drowning in debt.

Penelope had ghosted Cassandra completely, blocking all contact.

To make matters worse, Cassandra had received legal threats - apologize to Evelyn or face prison.

Forced into submission, she now groveled at Evelyn's feet.

Rage burned inside Cassandra. How did Evelyn always come out on top? The Fleur International Design Competition. Jonathan's favor.

They were equally talented! Why did Evelyn get everything?

Meanwhile, Jonathan watched thoughtfully. Perhaps Evelyn had powerful connections.

Still processing the bizarre scene, Evelyn reached out. "What are you-"

Without warning, Cassandra lunged at her.