Chapter 274

Victoria's eyes flashed with irritation as she labeled Penelope as the perpetual source of ridiculous schemes.

If not for their shared last name "Whitmore," Victoria would have cut ties with Penelope long ago.

Taking a steadying breath, Victoria turned to Evelyn. "I was only joking earlier. Did you actually believe I meant it?"

"My brother despises any form of manipulation or interference in professional matters. I would never stoop to such behavior."

Standing beside Victoria, Penelope clenched her fists in frustration. Why did Victoria have to show weakness in front of Evelyn?

Sophia scoffed. "Ms. Sinclair, what’s your problem? If you don’t know how to apologize, let me teach you. An apology requires saying the words 'I’m sorry'!"

Victoria was nearing her limit.

Evelyn glanced around. "With the crowd growing, I was considering uploading the video to the campus network right before the scholarship ceremony."

"Imagine revealing the backdoor dealings at such a pivotal moment—wouldn’t that be entertaining?"

Victoria finally relented. "Evelyn, I spoke out of turn earlier. I shouldn’t have made such a joke. I sincerely apologize."

"Victoria, did you just apologize?" Penelope couldn’t believe her ears.

She glared at Evelyn. "I won’t apologize to you. If you want to release the video, go ahead. My reputation is already ruined because of you. One more scandal won’t break me."

Evelyn’s smirk widened. "Is that so? Then I won’t hold back."

A chill ran down Victoria’s spine. "But Evelyn, I’ve already apologized."

Evelyn’s gaze turned icy. "You were both involved. This is collective punishment."

Furious, Victoria yanked Penelope aside and hissed, "Penelope, didn’t you want me to introduce you to Sebastian?"

"Let me remind you—Sebastian despises women who engage in underhanded tactics. If he finds out about this, any chance with him will vanish."

"No, please!"

The mention of Sebastian shattered Penelope’s defiance. He was the man she had set her sights on.

Victoria feigned helplessness. "I’ve said all I can. The choice is yours."

"But Victoria, why should we fear Evelyn? Won’t your brother support you?"

"Penelope, this is my personal matter. If I keep relying on my brother to clean up my messes, won’t I seem incompetent? I refuse to leave that impression."

Grudgingly, Penelope approached Evelyn. "I apologize."

Sophia rolled her eyes. "That’s the most insincere apology I’ve ever heard."

Biting back her anger, Penelope forced out, "I genuinely apologize! Happy now?"

Evelyn tugged Sophia’s arm, radiating indifference. "Barely passable. Let’s hope there’s no next time. Come on, Sophia."

"Wait."

Victoria blocked their path. "Evelyn, we’ve apologized. Now delete the video."

Penelope nodded. "We won’t feel safe until it’s gone."

Evelyn’s lips curled. "No need."

Victoria paled. "Evelyn, are you going back on your word? Provoking the Sinclair family isn’t a game you can win."

"At worst, I’ll just apologize to my brother and end this quickly."

Evelyn waved her phone lazily. "What I mean is, there’s nothing to delete. I didn’t record anything."