Chapter 44

Evelyn let out a sharp laugh. "I don't need them, and I certainly don't need you meddling in my affairs. Let go of me!"

Nathaniel's grip tightened, his voice a low growl. "Watch your tone."

Before the tension could escalate further, Victoria's voice cut through the air. "Nathaniel!"

Evelyn turned to see Victoria and Penelope approaching from the far end of the hallway. Instantly, Nathaniel released her wrist, his fingers slipping away as if burned.

A bitter smirk curled Evelyn's lips. Of course. The moment Victoria appeared, he couldn't distance himself fast enough. Was he afraid of giving her the wrong impression?

Victoria's smile was sweet, but her eyes were ice as they flickered between Nathaniel and Evelyn. "I've been searching everywhere for you. The judges are gathering for a final discussion."

She stepped closer, her gaze settling on Evelyn with false sympathy. "I’m sorry you didn’t place this time, Ms. Carter. You have talent, though. Maybe next year will be your chance."

Evelyn said nothing, her expression unreadable.

Nathaniel turned away. "Let's go."

Victoria nodded. "I’ll catch up—just need to freshen up first."

The moment Nathaniel was out of earshot, Victoria's mask slipped. She tilted her head, her voice dripping with condescension. "This competition should be a wake-up call for you, Evelyn. You scraped into the finals by luck—just like how you lucked into marrying Nathaniel."

Penelope smirked, chiming in. "Did you know Victoria’s family organized this event? Look at how effortlessly she manages everything. Meanwhile, you poured your heart into this, only to fail. Pathetic."

Evelyn’s stomach twisted. So that was why she’d been disqualified. The competition was rigged from the start.

She forced herself to walk away, her chest tight.

Back in the main hall, Daniel spotted her immediately. "Evelyn! Where were you? I’ve been looking everywhere."

"Just needed air," she muttered. "Let’s go."

Daniel frowned. "No. I filed a complaint. Something’s off about the judging."

Evelyn exhaled sharply. "It won’t change anything."

But Daniel was stubborn. "We’re staying until the results are final."

Reluctantly, Evelyn stayed. Her eyes drifted to the judges’ table—Nathaniel was reviewing a set of designs. Hers.

Then Victoria appeared beside him, leaning in close, whispering something in his ear.

Evelyn looked away, her throat burning.

Nathaniel’s gaze lifted, locking onto her—and then Daniel, standing protectively at her side. His expression darkened.

Victoria followed his line of sight, her lips curving. "Nathaniel," she murmured, "I think we should announce a special consolation prize for Evelyn."