Chapter 324

Evelyn's words sent a jolt of unease through Sylvia, making her clutch her designer bag tighter.

"Honestly, what would a small-town girl like you know about high society? I won't even dignify this with an argument."

The two socialites flanking Sylvia exchanged knowing glances. While they doubted Sylvia would carry a knockoff, something about Evelyn's confidence unsettled them.

Still, loyalty prevailed. "Ignore her, Sylvia," one whispered. "Soon enough she'll see how out of her league she is."

The reassurance eased Sylvia's tension slightly.

Evelyn suppressed a smirk, curious to see how this little drama would unfold.

Meanwhile, Julian pulled his car into the parking space, scanning the crowded plaza for Evelyn. When he couldn't spot her, he dialed her number.

The call connected briefly before being cut off. A text appeared: "Something came up. Talk later."

Julian sighed, typing a simple "Understood" before pocketing his phone.

Sylvia led the group to Frenda's most exclusive restaurant - The Silver Spoon. Membership required either seven-figure wealth or political influence just to get past the velvet ropes.

As Sylvia stepped from the car, a tuxedoed maître d' materialized with a practiced smile.

"Ms. Montgomery, your usual table awaits."

Sylvia preened. "We'll take the private dining room I reserved."

"Of course, Ms. Montgomery."

The maître d' ushered them inside, where Sylvia's companions immediately began snapping photos of the crystal chandeliers and gold-leaf ceilings, their excitement palpable.

Evelyn remained impassive, her expression unreadable.

Assuming intimidation was working, Sylvia purred, "We're meeting our former classmates, Evelyn. Try not to embarrass yourself."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "Are they wild animals? Why would I be nervous?"

Sylvia's mouth opened and closed like a fish before she managed, "I'm trying to teach you proper decorum. Must you always act like some backwater hick?"

A careless shrug was Evelyn's only response.

Sylvia's stiletto tapped an irritated rhythm against the marble floor. That infuriating calmness always got under her skin.

"Your private dining room, Ms. Montgomery."

The maître d' stopped before ornate double doors. Sylvia produced several crisp bills from her Chanel clutch, pressing them into his palm.

"Thank you," she simpered.

The maître d' pocketed the generous tip with a bow. "Enjoy your evening, Ms. Montgomery!"

Once he departed, Nora gushed, "Sylvia, you're too kind! That tip could feed a family for a week!"

"Only the best for my friends," Sylvia replied, shooting Evelyn a pointed look before gesturing toward the doors.

Her friends rushed to open them, allowing Sylvia to make her grand entrance first. They deliberately blocked Evelyn's path before finally permitting her entry.

"Everyone," Sylvia announced, "look who I found!"

The buzz of conversation died as two dozen heads swiveled toward Evelyn.

Recognition dawned first on a woman in a Versace dress.

"Evelyn Carter? Is that really you?"

"Where have you been hiding all these years?"

"We should catch up properly!"

Evelyn offered them a serene smile. "It's lovely to see you all again."