Chapter 101

Nathan's calls went straight to voicemail.

Watching the news footage of Harrison carrying Evelyn in his arms, Nathan's grip tightened around his whiskey glass until his knuckles turned white.

Had she completely forgotten about their past?

With a violent sweep of his arm, he sent files scattering across his office floor, his expression thunderous.

"Mr. Sterling, Leonard Kingsley is hosting his 70th birthday gala at Skyview Tower this weekend."

"Shall I arrange our travel?" Simon inquired.

"Immediately!"

The penthouse of Skyview Tower glittered like a constellation that evening. The world's wealthiest man, Leonard Kingsley, spared no expense for his milestone celebration.

Every billionaire on the Forbes list had received an exclusive invitation.

All culinary ingredients had been flown in from Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe, prepared by celebrity chefs.

A Grammy-winning orchestra provided live entertainment, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the elite guests.

The trending hashtags #EvelynTheGoldDigger and #EvelynTheBully had finally begun fading from public memory.

Meanwhile, #FindCalico gained traction as netizens worldwide searched for the mysterious philanthropist.

Security resembled a presidential detail, given the concentration of power and wealth in attendance.

Celebrities whispered in awe at the Kingsley family's extravagance.

Rumors swirled about Leonard introducing his long-lost granddaughter tonight - the event's most anticipated moment.

Selected journalists prepped their equipment, honored to document this historic occasion.

Meanwhile, Evelyn sat before a vanity in the VIP suite.

Dominic had commissioned the most exclusive stylists in Monte Carlo, who presented racks of couture gowns.

"My sister must outshine every woman tonight," he'd instructed.

Her phone chimed with a message from Harrison: "Counting the minutes until your grand entrance, darling."

A secret smile played on her lips.

"What's got you grinning?" Olivia materialized behind her, peeking at the screen.

Evelyn quickly locked her phone, cheeks flushing. "Just nerves."

She and Harrison were still navigating their new relationship - best kept private for now.

Natalie and Sophia arrived together, champagne flutes in hand.

"The Darai squad reunites!" Olivia declared, distributing drinks.

"To watching our girl reclaim her throne tonight!" Natalie toasted.

Sophia smirked. "After this, no one will dare call you a social climber again."

"Damn right! Kingsley blood runs through these veins." Olivia linked arms with Evelyn.

Sophia drained her glass. "The gossip columns won't know what hit them."

Evelyn squeezed her friends' hands. "Couldn't do this without you."

The stylists presented an array of breathtaking designs with newfound deference.

"Miss Kingsley, when shall we begin your fitting?"

"Let my sisters choose first. They deserve to shine just as bright today."

The lead stylist bowed slightly. "Of course."

Olivia's expert eye landed on a blush pink chiffon masterpiece embroidered with thousands of micro-diamonds forming delicate floral patterns.

"This is the one," she declared.

A jewelry specialist produced a velvet case containing a breathtaking antique necklace. "This heirloom has been in the Kingsley collection for centuries."

Evelyn nodded. "We'll take both. I trust my girls' judgment."

Sophia examined the gems professionally. "Flawless clarity. These are museum-quality pieces."

Casually, she asked, "So...where's Julian tonight?"

"Elliot and Julian prefer intimate family dinners over these spectacles. We'll celebrate privately later."

Evelyn's eyes sparkled with sudden understanding - the first time Sophia had ever inquired about Julian voluntarily.

Exchanging knowing glances with Natalie and Olivia, they immediately began teasing their usually composed friend.