Chapter 19

The crowd surrounding Evelyn Carter was overwhelming, leaving Isabella Delaney utterly humiliated by the confrontation.

She stumbled backward instinctively, desperate to put distance between herself and Vanessa Sterling.

Olivia Sinclair swirled her champagne flute before turning with icy precision. "Your sister's being publicly shamed. Won't you defend your family's honor?" she taunted.

"What's happening here?" A thunderous voice cut through the murmurs.

The sea of guests parted to reveal Nathan Sterling, his stormy expression darkening with each approaching stride.

His gaze locked onto Evelyn immediately.

Months had passed since their last encounter. She'd gained healthy weight, her complexion glowing beneath the chandeliers - a stark contrast to the gaunt woman he'd last seen.

Her emerald gown accentuated every curve, the neckline framing her radiant smile. She looked like royalty reborn.

He couldn't look away.

Vanessa spotted her brother and immediately regained her bravado. "Nathan! They're attacking us!" she shrieked, pointing accusingly.

Nathan's sharp eyes took in his sister's ruined makeup and Isabella's trembling form. The crowd held its breath.

"Bullying defenseless women? How noble." His voice dripped sarcasm.

Evelyn merely shrugged. "Believe what you want."

Her smirk held centuries of unspoken retribution. "Though you should know your sister's true nature by now."

Olivia stepped forward, eyes blazing. "Get out! Sterlings aren't welcome at my events!"

The gathered elite quickly voiced their support:

"She insulted them first!"

"That vile comment about infertility!"

"Threatened to call police over spilled champagne!"

Nathan's jaw tightened. He knew Vanessa's temperament all too well. "Is this true?" he demanded.

Vanessa dropped her gaze, suddenly fascinated by her ruined shoes.

Isabella seized the moment, crafting her perfect victim persona. "It's my fault, Nathan. I should've stopped her." Her voice trembled artfully.

Turning to Evelyn with tear-brightened eyes: "Ms. Carter, I never knew about your... condition when Nathan and I... If I could undo it all..."

She clutched her stomach dramatically. "Please don't take it out on Sterling Enterprises."

Her performance painted Evelyn as the bitter ex seeking corporate vengeance.

Olivia saw through the act instantly. "You homewrecking hypocrite!" She snatched a champagne bottle from a nearby tray.

Evelyn caught her wrist. "She's carrying a child. Not worth it."

Isabella chose that moment to swoon dramatically into Nathan's arms.

Nathan shoved Olivia back with enough force to send her stumbling. Only Evelyn's quick reflexes prevented a fall.

Once Olivia steadied herself, Evelyn moved like lightning.

The crack of her palm against Isabella's cheek echoed through the ballroom. Isabella staggered, clutching her flaming cheek in shock.

No one had ever dared strike her before.

Evelyn flexed her stinging fingers, locking eyes with Nathan. "Touch Olivia again," she vowed, "and I'll make sure Isabella receives twice the pain. Let's see how many blows your delicate flower can withstand."

The deadly promise hung in the air between them.

Not a soul present doubted she meant every word.