Chapter 194

Evelyn let out a quiet sigh in response.

"Damn, did he suddenly grow a conscience? Even if he did, you're not going to just forgive him, right?" Olivia's voice was sharp with disbelief.

Evelyn shook her head slowly. "I've already settled the score between us."

That caught Olivia's attention immediately.

"How? Don't tell me you slept with him again. Listen, if you even think about forgiving that bastard, I swear I'll—"

Evelyn grabbed her friend's arm. "Hey."

She met Olivia's gaze steadily. "I told you, I'm done with him. I won't repeat that mistake."

Olivia studied her face before nodding. "Good. Now let's go have some real fun."

But Evelyn hesitated. "I can't. I have plans with Harrison tonight."

Olivia rolled her eyes dramatically. "Ugh, always with Harrison. Just invite him along then."

"I should ask first—"

"Ask nothing!" Olivia interrupted. "Send him the location. If he doesn't show up, I'll personally teach him a lesson."

Evelyn could only shake her head at her friend's antics.

That evening, Olivia dragged Evelyn to an upscale lounge where they joined a group of friends on the dance floor.

"Tonight, you forget everything and just enjoy yourself," Olivia shouted over the music.

The bass pulsed through them as they danced freely under the strobe lights.

After several songs, Evelyn retreated to their VIP booth and ordered a virgin mojito.

Across the room, Vanessa Sterling sat at the bar, nursing her whiskey. It had been weeks since she'd dared show her face in public after the plagiarism scandal.

With Nathan hospitalized and unable to monitor her every move, she'd finally ventured out under cover of night.

Her fingers tightened around the glass when she spotted Evelyn laughing with friends. How dare she enjoy herself while Nathan lay in a hospital bed?

But Vanessa remembered her brother's warning and forced herself to look away.

"Ms. Sterling? Is that you?"

Vanessa frowned at the unfamiliar woman approaching her. "Do I know you?"

Victoria Sinclair's smile faltered. "We met at Isabella's birthday gala last year."

Recognition dawned. "Ah, Isabella's cousin."

Victoria slid onto the stool beside her. "I was just visiting Isabella yesterday. Have you been to see her?"

Vanessa's grip on her glass tightened. "I've been... preoccupied. How is she holding up?"

Victoria's expression darkened. "Prison isn't exactly a spa retreat. All thanks to that woman over there." She nodded toward Evelyn's table.

Vanessa followed her gaze. Yes, Evelyn Carter had destroyed many lives. And Vanessa wouldn't forget it.