Chapter 102

The gala outside the VIP lounge continued without a hitch.

At the heart of the event, Leonard Kingsley and Dominic Kingsley held court, their commanding presence drawing a constant stream of well-wishers and business associates.

From across the room, Alistair Delaney approached with Isabella Delaney in tow, his steps measured and deliberate.

"Mr. Kingsley," Alistair greeted with forced politeness, his voice carefully modulated to show deference.

Leonard's smile didn't reach his eyes as he replied, "Mr. Delaney, I see you've finally clawed your way back into the Fortune 100 this year."

The barb landed precisely as intended.

Alistair's cheeks flushed slightly. "Barely scraping in at number 100, I'm afraid."

The power disparity between Delaney Enterprises and Kingsley Industries remained vast. It had taken every resource Alistair possessed to reach this precarious position.

"I understand you're introducing your granddaughter to society tonight," Leonard continued smoothly.

Alistair placed a proprietary hand on Isabella's shoulder. "My granddaughter is quite sociable. I'm sure she'd make excellent company for your Evelyn."

Isabella offered her most charming smile. "Mr. Kingsley, Mr. Dominic, it's truly an honor."

Dominic's gaze turned glacial. "My sister doesn't associate with identity thieves, Ms. Delaney."

Isabella's smile faltered at the direct reference to her past deception.

Alistair understood the hostility - Dominic was Evelyn's devoted brother after all. He suppressed a smirk, thinking, "No matter, your grandfather would never accept that gold-digger into your family."

He resolved to find a private moment with Leonard later to discuss Evelyn's inappropriate ambitions.

"If you'll excuse us," Leonard said with false politeness, "other guests require our attention."

"Of course," Alistair replied smoothly. "A pleasure as always."

Spotting Nathan Sterling across the room, Isabella brightened. "Grandfather, Nathan's here. I should—"

"That man publicly humiliated you by breaking the engagement!" Alistair hissed. "Have some pride!"

Isabella's hand drifted to her stomach. "He'll come around."

She maneuvered through the crowd, carefully protecting her belly as she approached Nathan.

"Nathan! You didn't tell me you were coming!" Her face lit up with hope.

Perhaps he still cared about her and their unborn child. That must be why he'd come after she'd mentioned the event.

Nathan barely glanced at her, his gaze scanning the room. "Last minute decision."

"Grandfather's occupied with other guests. May I join your party as your plus-one?" Her eyes shone with expectation.

Nathan finally met her gaze. "I've made my position clear to Mr. Delaney. Maintain your distance." With that, he disappeared into the crowd.

Isabella's hope shattered like dropped crystal. She clenched her fists, nails biting into her palms as she fought back tears.

This was all Evelyn's fault. That scheming witch had stolen Nathan's affection.

Needing to compose herself, she retreated to the ladies' room.

The moment she entered, she froze. Evelyn stood at the marble sink, calmly drying her hands.

"You!" Isabella spat. "Must you haunt my every step?"

Evelyn arched one perfect eyebrow. "I believe you owe me something, Isabella."

She took a step forward, forcing Isabella back against the wall.

"Shall we have that public apology now?" Evelyn's voice was deceptively sweet. "Would you prefer to kneel, or will a simple bow suffice?"

"In your dreams!" Isabella shot back. "Look at you - dressed like a common shopgirl. What makes you think you belong here?"