Chapter 430

Evelyn Chambers arched a perfectly sculpted eyebrow, her crimson lips curling into a smirk. "Mrs. Blackwell, darling, jealousy doesn't suit you. What you're feeling is something far more pathetic."

She let the pause linger, savoring the moment. "Regret."

"Bitter, consuming regret," Evelyn continued, tapping her manicured nails against her champagne flute. "After all, you had the chance to welcome the heiress of Kingsley Industries into your family."

Her gaze flickered dismissively toward Juliette. "And instead you've settled for... this." The unspoken insult hung heavier than any words could convey.

Eleanor Blackwell's face flushed crimson. "How dare you! Explain yourself this instant!"

With an elegant shrug, Evelyn simply turned away, her designer gown swirling dramatically as she approached Evelyn Carter.

"Ms. Carter," she greeted, her tone transforming into warm honey. The contrast from her previous sharpness was almost comical.

Evelyn Carter offered a polite smile. "Mrs. Chambers. Lovely to see you."

The socialite's eyes lit up at being recognized. "My dear, success becomes you. You're practically glowing." Her meaningful glance toward Harrison Whitmore spoke volumes.

"Thank you," Evelyn Carter replied smoothly. "Life has been kind lately."

Evelyn Chambers leaned in conspiratorially. "A word of caution, darling. That woman..." She discreetly gestured toward Eleanor. "She's positively green with envy. Watch your back."

Without missing a beat, Evelyn Carter redirected the conversation. "That's an exquisite gown, Mrs. Chambers. Is that the new collection from La Perle?"

The socialite preened, fingers fluttering to her diamond earrings. "Flown in from Paris just this morning. The waiting list was six months, but darling, some things are worth the wait."

"It's stunning on you," Evelyn Carter complimented. "You should visit my atelier in Pamore sometime. I'd be honored to design something special for you."

Evelyn Chambers nearly squealed with delight. "Would you really? I've heard your custom pieces are impossible to get!"

"Consider it done," Evelyn Carter assured her. "Just name the date."

As the socialite floated away in a cloud of joy and Chanel No. 5, Harrison's arm slipped around Evelyn's waist. His breath was warm against her ear. "I rather liked hearing her say 'happy marriage,'" he murmured.

The effect was instantaneous - Evelyn's ears turned pink, her pulse quickening. "Harrison, I..." Her voice came out embarrassingly breathless.

His low chuckle sent shivers down her spine. "Speechless, darling? That's a first."