Chapter 213

The Pamore Fashion Show was nothing short of spectacular.

The venue buzzed with elite designers, rising industry stars, and journalists from every major fashion publication worldwide.

Backstage, Evelyn moved with practiced efficiency, overseeing last-minute adjustments while Olivia coordinated the makeup artists and wardrobe team.

Every detail mattered. There was zero margin for error.

Evelyn's shoulders remained tense beneath her tailored blazer until Olivia pressed a chilled water bottle into her hands.

"Drink. You look like you're about to combust."

Evelyn accepted it with a grateful nod.

Just as they finished final checks, her phone vibrated.

Julian Hartwell's name flashed across the screen.

Her brother hadn't contacted her in weeks. Why now?

Stepping outside, Evelyn found a quiet corner.

"Jules! To what do I owe this rare honor?"

Julian's grinning face filled the screen. "Can't a brother congratulate his baby sister on her big day?"

Evelyn rolled her eyes. "You've had weeks to call."

"Didn't want to distract you!" His tone turned sincere. "But seriously, Evie—I'm proud of you. Sent a little something your way too. Should arrive any minute."

Evelyn's curiosity piqued. "What is it?"

Julian winked. "Patience, darling."

Just as she opened her mouth to protest, a familiar silhouette caught her eye.

Nathan Sterling.

"Gotta go, Jules." She ended the call abruptly.

Nathan approached, his gaze sweeping over the organized chaos backstage before settling on her.

"I had no idea you possessed such remarkable design talent." His voice held genuine astonishment. "How much about you remains unknown to me, Evelyn?"

The question hung between them, weighted with unspoken history.

Evelyn forced a tight smile. "There are entire chapters of my life you've never bothered to read, Mr. Sterling. A bit late to start now, don't you think?"

Nathan's expression darkened with something resembling regret. "It seems I never truly took the time to know the woman I married."

The raw honesty in his words stole her breath.

Evelyn steeled herself. "That ship has sailed. Since you're here as a guest, the audience area is that way." She pointed firmly toward the exit.

Nathan hesitated, as if wanting to say more, but Evelyn had already turned away.

Some doors, once closed, were better left unopened.