Chapter 193

Nathan Sterling's heroic act today couldn't undo the years of pain he'd inflicted on Evelyn Carter.

"If you've got so much free time, pick up a damn book instead of spreading rumors. Stay in your lane!"

Evelyn's voice cut through the air like shattered glass, her hostility unmistakable.

Her position was crystal clear.

Gregory Hammond chuckled awkwardly. "Right, I'll just... go check on Nate then."

He practically sprinted away from the verbal assault.

As Evelyn exited the hospital, her phone buzzed with a call from Maxwell Donovan. "I've traced the vehicle. The Volkswagen belongs to Cassandra Winslow, and she was definitely behind the wheel today."

Evelyn let out a derisive snort. "I was clearly her target."

"Correct, Ms. Carter. Though it doesn't appear premedited. More like a crime of opportunity."

Evelyn pressed her lips into a thin line. "What's her background?"

"Already looked into that. Orphanage kid. Earned her way into Pamore University through sheer academic merit."

"During her studies, she survived on scholarships and donor funding. Worked multiple jobs while maintaining top grades. Quite the rags-to-riches story."

It sounded almost inspirational.

"Current location?"

"We've got her in custody. Your orders?"

Though Maxwell phrased it as a question, the Kingsley family's usual methods left little doubt about Cassandra's fate if left to their devices.

Disappearance. Or worse.

Everything hinged on Evelyn's next words.

"Compile the evidence and hand it over to the authorities. Let the justice system handle it."

Maxwell sounded shocked. "Ms. Carter, you're letting her off that easily?"

Evelyn frowned. "Since when is due process considered lenient?"

If punishment was warranted, this was how civilized people handled it.

Mercy had its limits - she wasn't about to turn the other cheek for attempted murder.

But... Cassandra's design portfolio showed remarkable talent. That level of skill spoke of extraordinary dedication.

To climb from orphanage to university to professional success? Evelyn understood the magnitude of that struggle. One reckless moment shouldn't erase a lifetime of effort.

She'd throw Cassandra a lifeline.

"Ms. Carter, she tried to kill you."

"Then let prison reform her. Maybe after serving time, she'll appreciate her second chance."

Reluctantly, Maxwell acquiesced. "As you wish, Ms. Carter."

The conversation ended abruptly as tires screeched nearby. A cherry-red Ferrari pulled up with theatrical precision.

Before Evelyn could react, Olivia Sinclair exploded from the driver's seat, visibly sagging with relief at the sight of her unharmed friend.

"Jesus Christ, Ev! You nearly gave me a heart attack! Are you hurt? Let me see!"

The worry in Olivia's voice was palpable.

Evelyn ended the call. "I'm fine."

"Thank god! But what the hell happened? Since when do you play bumper cars in midday traffic?"

Evelyn exhaled sharply. "What else? Fashion show drama. Cassandra couldn't handle losing the lead designer position."

Olivia's face darkened with rage.

"That psychotic bitch tried to run you over in broad daylight? But wait - if she wanted you dead, how are you standing here without a scratch?"

Evelyn explained Nathan's last-minute intervention.

Olivia's eyebrows shot up, her expression twisting with disbelief. "Hold up - Nathan Sterling saved you?"