Chapter 450

"Oh, absolutely. Thank you."

"Don't even think twice about it. You're my dearest friend," Victoria beamed, flashing Danielle a radiant smile. Observing how easily swayed Danielle appeared, a daring scheme formed in Victoria's mind. Perhaps she could manipulate Danielle to eliminate Evelyn.

Straightening her posture, Victoria's indifferent gaze swept over Danielle. "I'm swamped right now, so I must dash. Let's plan that tea and shopping date soon. I've even picked out some special gifts for you."

"No worries at all. Go ahead."

Danielle watched Victoria depart after exchanging contact information. She pinched her forearm until it turned crimson, finally convincing herself this wasn't some fantastical dream.

This was reality unfolding before her!

Electric excitement coursed through her veins as she realized she'd finally grasped her golden opportunity. The mere thought of her literary works being published or adapted made her heart flutter with anticipation.

Just then, her phone vibrated. Evelyn's name flashed across the screen.

Danielle nearly fumbled her device. Had Evelyn discovered something? Or had Victoria approached Evelyn instead?

Though Danielle had never indulged in deceit before, Victoria's irresistible offers proved too tempting to refuse. Self-preservation seemed only natural under these circumstances.

As an ordinary orphan without connections or beauty, she'd endured endless mockery from others.

At least Evelyn possessed decent looks and attracted wealthy, handsome suitors. Even without Victoria's friendship, Evelyn could lead a comfortable life.

But for Danielle? This was everything. Losing Victoria's favor would mean utter ruin.

A frosty glint surfaced in Danielle's eyes as she stared at the caller ID. "Evelyn, I hope you'll forgive me for this. Once I succeed, I'll make it up to you. But just this once... let me have this chance."

She let the call go unanswered.

Meanwhile, Evelyn frowned at her silent phone. Hadn't Danielle specifically requested to attend this concert for the conductor's autograph?

Thanks to Christopher's connections, she'd secured both the autograph and a photo opportunity with Danielle's idol. Yet now her calls went unanswered.

Still, Evelyn sent a text:

"Danielle, I got the autograph. If you want that photo, come to the main hall now."

Glancing at Christopher, she murmured, "My friend isn't answering. She must be occupied with something."

"That's alright. You can still collect the autograph for her."

Evelyn nodded. Perhaps Danielle had gotten held up elsewhere. She knew how desperately her friend had wanted this meeting with the renowned conductor.

A nagging worry crept in - was Danielle in some kind of trouble?

Evelyn exhaled in relief as the concert concluded flawlessly. All her efforts had borne fruit - she'd not only earned her academic credits but also secured a coveted stage performance.

Perfect.

Turning to Christopher, she announced, "Let's go, Christopher. Dinner's on me tonight."

"Certainly." He rarely saw Evelyn this elated. The evening had been ideal - not only fulfilling her academic requirements but granting her a spotlight moment.

As they walked, Evelyn suddenly hesitated. "Christopher... are you close with Victoria Sinclair?"