Chapter 272

Evelyn Carter had to maintain strict control over her emotions, especially since she planned to keep Nathaniel Whitmore from discovering she carried his child.

If he ever found out, he might demand she terminate the pregnancy. He'd made his stance on children painfully clear before.

This thought jolted Evelyn fully awake. Her fingers trembled as they brushed against her still-flat abdomen.

No matter what challenges lay ahead, Evelyn was determined to protect this baby and bring it safely into the world.

After dressing in fresh clothes, her phone buzzed with a call from Julian Montgomery. "Evelyn, your prenatal appointment is scheduled for this afternoon. Don't forget."

"I know. My classes are packed today, but I'll make time later."

Scanning her schedule, Evelyn realized her weekdays were completely booked with back-to-back lectures.

Textbooks in hand, she headed to campus. Though only a weekend had passed, it felt like months had slipped by.

At least the recent chaos had finally settled down.

Evelyn slipped into her usual seat just as Professor Elizabeth Hartwell made an announcement. "Students, we have a mandatory event this afternoon."

"Vista Properties is establishing a scholarship foundation at Halvard University."

"Going forward, outstanding students may qualify for Vista-sponsored scholarships. Let's all strive for this opportunity!"

Vista Properties?

Evelyn's mind flashed to her childhood neighborhood's redevelopment - a project deeply entangled with Vista Properties. Why did this company keep appearing in her life?

Though technically, it was Victoria Sinclair's family enterprise.

Last time, Victoria had gone so far as to threaten Evelyn over the redevelopment project.

Still, Evelyn wasn't one to be easily intimidated.

Professor Hartwell approached her directly. "Evelyn, Vista is assembling a project team. Given your exceptional skills, we're recommending you join alongside a faculty representative."

"Students from multiple universities will participate. It's a chance for Halvard to shine."

"Additionally, you could advocate for increased investment in our department - better equipment, more opportunities."

Evelyn hesitated. "Professor Hartwell, may I have time to consider?"

While she might have welcomed such an opportunity with any other company, Vista Properties made her uneasy.

She wanted nothing to do with Victoria or her family.

Despite Vista's professional reputation, Evelyn couldn't forget Victoria's underhanded tactics during the recent Fleur International Design Competition.

Though Evelyn had ultimately triumphed, she had no desire to waste energy on unnecessary drama.

"Evelyn, this is an incredible opportunity."

"As our Fleur Competition gold medalist, declining might reflect poorly on Halvard."

"Please share any concerns. The university will support you however we can."

Evelyn struggled to articulate her reservations without sounding petty.

It wasn't fear of Victoria - just profound annoyance at the situation.

After a deep breath, Evelyn relented. "Very well, I'll join the project team."

She would face this challenge head-on.

During lunch break, Sophia Bennett - who had no afternoon classes - accompanied Evelyn to Vista's scholarship foundation ceremony.

The moment they entered the venue, Evelyn caught a whiff of overpowering perfume. She didn't need to look to know its source.

Only Penelope Whitmore would drown herself in such a cloying scent.

Turning, Evelyn's suspicion was confirmed - Penelope stood arm-in-arm with Victoria.

Sophia grimaced. "Evelyn, isn't that the insufferable woman from the mall last week?"

Evelyn nodded, realizing fate had a twisted sense of humor.