Chapter 166

Evelyn's lips curled into a knowing smirk as she nudged Vanessa Sterling with her elbow.

Vanessa seized the moment. "Professor Whitaker, I'm planning to apply for your master's program next year. I'd be honored to study design under your guidance."

Edmund Whitaker gave an approving nod. "Your work shows promise. Keep developing your skills."

The renowned professor walked away, leaving whispers trailing in his wake.

Eleanor Blackwell practically vibrated with excitement at the professor's response.

She clutched Vanessa's arm. "Darling! This is perfect! You must secure that spot at all costs. The Sterling name depends on it!"

Vanessa's eyes glittered with ambition. "Relax, Mother. That position already has my name on it." She could practically taste the victory.

Then Evelyn Carter appeared like a storm cloud, her expression dark.

Vanessa's stomach dropped inexplicably.

"We need to talk." Evelyn's voice carried an edge that made nearby heads turn.

Vanessa tried to sidestep her, but Evelyn's hand shot out, fingers clamping around her wrist like a vise. "Running away? Guilty conscience?"

Eleanor swooped in like a hawk. "Evelyn Carter! Unhand my daughter this instant!"

Evelyn ignored the older woman, her gaze locked on Vanessa. "I'm offering you one chance. Speak with me privately."

The growing audience exchanged curious glances, their whispers buzzing like angry bees.

Vanessa inhaled sharply. "It's fine, Mother. I'll handle this."

"But—" Eleanor's protest died as she shot Evelyn a venomous look. "What could you possibly have to discuss? Planning more of your schemes?"

Vanessa patted her mother's arm. "Relax. She wouldn't dare make a scene here."

Evelyn's mocking laugh sent chills down Vanessa's spine. Her fingers twisted nervously in the fabric of her designer dress.

Once they reached the empty corridor, Evelyn whirled around. "Vanessa, how exactly—"

Vanessa's pulse jumped.

The moment of reckoning had come.

But the original sketches were safely in her possession now. Without proof, Evelyn's accusations meant nothing.

"I've no idea what you're implying," Vanessa said, lifting her chin.

Evelyn's laugh was ice cold. "Still playing innocent? Look me in the eye and tell me—"

"—that design is truly yours? I've never seen a thief with such audacity."

Vanessa scanned the hallway before hissing, "So what if I copied your sketches? Prove they were ever yours."

"Where's your evidence? Without proof, you're just making empty accusations."

Evelyn's eyes widened at Vanessa's shameless admission.

"You think wealth makes you untouchable? Fine—yes, I recreated every detail from your portfolio."

"But here's the delicious part—who'll believe you now? The great Professor Whitaker certainly won't."

Evelyn shook her head in disbelief. "I've encountered thieves before, but your level of delusion is astounding."

Vanessa crossed her arms triumphantly. "No proof, no case. Keep talking and I'll sue for defamation."

Evelyn actually chuckled then.

She'd come here intending to give this spoiled heiress a chance to come clean quietly. To spare Vanessa's academic future despite everything.

But the girl's arrogance was truly breathtaking.