Chapter 23

Evelyn's crimson lips curved slightly. "What business is it of yours where I am?"

Her lashes remained lowered, deliberately avoiding Adrian's piercing gaze.

His eyes raked over her flawless makeup like a blade. From the delicate arch of her brows to the plump curve of her lips—every feature was breathtaking.

The black gown hugged her curves, every detail exuding impeccable taste.

With Sebastian's backing, she moved through these elite circles with effortless grace. The once-plain woman now radiated dazzling brilliance.

A chilling aura emanated from Adrian. His usual careless demeanor had vanished completely.

Isabella instantly noticed the change in the man beside her. Since Adrian clearly despised Evelyn, there was no need for pretense.

She lifted her chin haughtily. "Evelyn, I nearly forgot. Now that you've latched onto Sebastian Cortez, you can go wherever you please. Is the great Mr. Cortez gracing us tonight?"

Adrian needed to discuss business with Sterling Manor. Securing Sebastian's support would elevate her status in Adrian's eyes.

With her beauty, seducing Sebastian would be child's play.

Evelyn smirked. "You want to see Sebastian?"

Isabella glanced at Adrian, but his expression remained unreadable.

"Miss Roland, Adrian's business could use a boost. As his ex-wife, why not introduce him to Mr. Cortez?"

Evelyn nearly laughed aloud.

The audacity.

Mocking amusement danced in her eyes. "Isabella, everyone says Adrian adores you, yet you don't understand him at all. He built his empire through sheer ability. Asking him to rely on his ex-wife's connections? That's a slap in his face."

"Besides, if you could bewitch a man like Adrian, Sebastian Cortez should be easy prey."

Isabella's face darkened.

Adrian cut in coldly, "I don't need favors."

Evelyn didn't back down. "And I have no interest in humiliating myself."

Adrian's fury burned. The woman before him stood like black ice—her luminous eyes sharp as daggers.

Evelyn was stunningly beautiful and brilliant. But the shadow in her gaze seemed deeper than before.

What more could she possibly want, now that she had Sebastian?

"Evelyn, can't exes be friends?" Isabella taunted. She wanted Adrian to see how uncouth this country bumpkin really was.

"Friends?" Evelyn nearly choked on the absurdity. Remaining friends after such betrayal? Delusional.

How could two people who'd hurt each other ever interact without resentment?

Her icy gaze swept over Adrian. "A decent ex should vanish like the dead. Seeing trash like you two makes me sick."

"Do I lack friends so badly that I'd choose garbage?"

"Evelyn!" Adrian's handsome face twisted with rage, murder flashing in his eyes.

Must she be so vicious?

He'd never realized how sharp her tongue could be.

Evelyn gave him a disdainful look. "Want me dead? Adrian, what unspeakable crime did I commit to deserve your hatred?"

She took a deep breath, her gaze clear as moonlight. "Pity. My life's worth more than you can afford."

Without another word, she turned and walked away.