Chapter 341

A voice dripping with sarcasm cut through the air. "Well, this is an unexpected surprise."

Evelyn turned to see Beatrice Thornton, Liam's aunt, standing there in her usual designer ensemble. She offered a polite nod. "Good evening, Beatrice."

The older woman's lips curled in disdain. "You're no longer married to my nephew. I insist you address me properly as Ms. Thornton."

Evelyn remained unfazed. "My apologies, Ms. Thornton."

"All the guests here tonight are distinguished individuals." Beatrice's eyes raked over Evelyn's simple dress. "What exactly are you doing here? Who could have possibly invited you?"

Evelyn chose not to respond. Beside her, Rosalind bristled, ready to fire back, but Evelyn subtly squeezed her wrist in warning.

The Blackwood family approached, their expressions varying from surprise to displeasure. Despite the divorce, Evelyn greeted each of them courteously.

Richard and Eleanor returned her greeting warmly, while Maxwell and Penelope remained stone-faced. Sebastian and Isabella wore identical expressions of disgust, as if Evelyn's mere presence tainted the prestigious event.

"How utterly shameless," Isabella sneered. "First stealing someone's first love, now stalking another woman's fiancé?"

Rosalind couldn't contain herself. "Who exactly are you calling shameless? If you've got something to say, say it plainly."

Isabella arched a perfectly groomed brow. "I'm talking about Evelyn Carter. Isn't it obvious? What kind of woman crashes her ex-husband's cousin's engagement party?"

"You—" Rosalind's hands clenched into fists.

Evelyn stepped between them, offering Isabella a thin smile. "If my presence offends you, Isabella, you're welcome to leave. There's no need to embarrass yourself with such petty behavior."

Isabella's face darkened, but before she could retort, Richard intervened sharply. "This is the Winslows' and Dawsons' celebration. Don't make a scene."

Beatrice immediately defended her niece. "Richard, Evelyn is no longer part of our family. Remember where your loyalties should lie."

Evelyn had no interest in continuing this pointless argument. With a final nod to Richard and Eleanor, she guided Rosalind away.

As they moved through the crowd, Rosalind muttered, "Why does General Blackwood have such insufferable relatives? And why couldn't I put that woman in her place?"

"Remember our purpose here tonight," Evelyn reminded her quietly.

"I haven't forgotten," Rosalind grumbled.

Suddenly, Evelyn collided with a solid chest. She stumbled back, murmuring apologies. "I'm so sorry."

The man before her had unremarkable features but strikingly intense eyes. "No harm done," he said with an easy smile. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine, thank you." Evelyn made to leave, but the man caught her wrist. Her pulse jumped as she tried to pull away without success.

Rosalind reacted instantly, shoving the man back and positioning herself protectively in front of Evelyn. "What do you think you're doing?"

The man barely glanced at Rosalind before focusing on Evelyn. "Nathaniel Winslow," he introduced himself smoothly. "I'd very much like to know you better. Your name? Perhaps your number?"

Recognition dawned - this was Victoria Dawson's fiancé, the co-host of tonight's event, whose photo adorned the entrance hall.

Rosalind answered before Evelyn could. "She's not interested. Especially not in another woman's future husband."