Chapter 276

"Sorry, I'm busy." Evelyn said flatly.

She had no interest in joining the group for dinner or socializing. Not when she was carrying a child.

"Evelyn, this is a major project for our college. Don't you care at all?" Penelope pressed, frustration creeping into her voice.

"Not my problem," Evelyn replied coolly, her expression unreadable.

Penelope clenched her fists. It was like Evelyn had become an entirely different person—untouchable, indifferent, impossible to manipulate.

"Evelyn, don’t let arrogance ruin you," Penelope hissed.

"Honestly, I find it amusing watching you all seethe when you can’t stand me but can’t do a thing about it. Bye!" With a smirk, Evelyn turned on her heel and walked away.

Penelope’s face burned with fury.

She whirled toward Victoria, voice sharp. "Did you see that? She just walked out on us! Since when did Evelyn become so untouchable? She dismissed us like we’re nothing!"

Victoria’s expression darkened. She knew exactly where Evelyn’s newfound confidence came from—her entanglement with both Nathaniel and Harrison.

She had underestimated Evelyn’s cunning, but she wouldn’t make that mistake again.

Without hesitation, Victoria pulled out her phone and dialed. "Mr. Harrison? It’s Victoria. I heard Vista Properties is planning a major redevelopment project in Bern City."

"I’d love to get some firsthand experience. Would it be possible for me to visit the branch office and observe?"

On the other end, Maxwell answered smoothly. "Of course, Ms. Sinclair. You’re welcome anytime."

"Perfect. I’ll be there soon."

Hanging up, Victoria’s lips curled into a cold smile. "Let’s see how long Evelyn stays this arrogant."

Penelope grinned. "This is perfect. If that demolition project falls through, she’ll be crawling back to us on her knees."

Victoria scoffed. Did Evelyn really think someone of her background could compete with her?

Meanwhile, Evelyn returned home to find her three brothers lounging on the couch, all watching her expectantly.

She paused. "Chris, Andrew, Daniel… what’s going on?"

Daniel grinned. "Guess what? I just won a million dollars in the lottery."

Evelyn blinked. "Seriously?"

She hadn’t expected such luck in her own family. Smiling, she said, "Congratulations, Daniel."

He waved it off. "Not a big deal. I invested it all in Harrison’s entertainment company. It’s about to go public—so I’m basically rich now."

He smirked, then added, "Oh, and Andrew started his own business. It’s doing pretty well."

Andrew nodded. "I opened a chain of piano academies in Nord City. It’s franchising now, so money’s not an issue."

Evelyn feigned envy. "Damn, why is everyone getting rich except me? But honestly, I’m happy for you guys."

Daniel ruffled her hair affectionately. "From now on, you don’t have to worry about anything. Come back to Nord City with us and live the easy life."

After the kidnapping, Daniel had noticed how guarded Evelyn had become.

No more pretending. He’d make sure she never had to struggle again.