Chapter 52

Evelyn Carter had transformed into an entirely different woman since signing those divorce papers. Nathaniel Whitmore found her increasingly enigmatic with each passing day.

His phone buzzed abruptly. A trending notification flashed across the screen—Harrison Sinclair's new relationship had gone viral.

Nathaniel's brows knitted tightly. He tapped the link, revealing a photo of Evelyn's retreating figure beside an unfamiliar man. The champagne-colored dress she wore swayed with every graceful step, catching the light.

His fingers twitched involuntarily, remembering how the delicate fabric had once brushed against his skin. Swallowing hard, he took a sip of water before summoning Robert Chambers. "Get this trending topic taken down immediately."

"Right away, sir. Should I also investigate which studio Mrs. Whitmore visited?"

Nathaniel shot him an icy glare. "Don't you have more pressing matters? Dismissed."

Meanwhile, Evelyn hailed a cab to Jonathan Reeves' studio, nestled in a refurbished steel mill turned creative hub. The industrial-chic space pulsed with artistic energy.

As she entered, the receptionist—Natalie Chambers—approached. "Are you here for an interview?"

"In a manner of speaking. Is Jonathan available?"

"Not at the moment. You may wait in the lounge."

Evelyn had barely settled when a voice called out, "Evelyn Carter?"

She turned to face Cassandra Blake, her surprise evident. "What a small world."

"Truly. What brings you here?" Cassandra inquired.

Natalie returned with a water glass. "She's interviewing, Cassandra."

Cassandra's eyes widened. "You? Interviewing at this modest studio? Surely prestigious firms are lining up for you?"

It defied logic—the Fleur International Design Competition's gold medalist, the legendary designer Zoe, choosing Jonathan's humble workspace. Especially with Harrison Sinclair in the picture.

Evelyn remained composed. "I have my reasons."

A flicker of suspicion crossed Cassandra's gaze. "Do you and Jonathan know each other?"

"We do."

"How exactly?" Her tone turned oddly pointed.

Before Evelyn could respond, Jonathan strode in. "You made it, Evelyn."

Cassandra's question came sharp as a blade. "You two are acquainted, Jonathan?"

"Indeed. Evelyn was our junior in college—brilliant, but had to leave for personal reasons," Jonathan explained.

Cassandra's laugh held an edge. "And now the renowned Zoe graces us? Did you charm her into joining, Jonathan?"

Jonathan sighed. "Cassandra, please."

The dynamic became clear—Cassandra's lingering glances betrayed her unspoken feelings for Jonathan.

"Let's discuss in my office," Jonathan suggested.

Evelyn followed wordlessly.

Cassandra watched their retreating figures, then dialed a number with saccharine sweetness. "Penelope Whitmore? Cassandra Blake here. We met at the awards gala?"

A groggy voice answered. "The silver medalist? Get to the point."

Penelope had woken in foul spirits, still reeling from discovering Evelyn's true identity as Zoe. How could that plain woman outshine her?

Cassandra pressed on. "Are you familiar with Evelyn Carter?"

Penelope's voice sharpened. "What's your game?"