Chapter 499

Sophia Whitmore couldn't resist teasing, her voice laced with playful curiosity. "I'm dying to know. When exactly did you purchase that penthouse at Skycrest Heights? And since when did you become such a culinary expert?"

She leaned closer to the phone screen, eyeing the gourmet breakfast spread. "That eggs Benedict looks straight out of a Michelin-starred restaurant. You're holding out on us, aren't you?"

Evelyn Carter felt heat creeping up her neck. Her fingers tightened around her phone. "Don't be ridiculous. I just... happened to share some personal moments. Who knew people would make such a fuss?"

A skeptical laugh came through the line. "Seriously, Evie? Are we really supposed to believe there isn't some gorgeous billionaire hiding in that penthouse with you?"

The accusation was so absurd it made Evelyn's breath catch.

"Of course not!" The denial burst from her lips before she could stop it.

Her gaze flickered toward Harrison Whitmore sitting at the dining table, and suddenly her pulse was racing like a startled rabbit. She pressed a hand against her chest, as if that could calm the erratic beating.

"I've got to go," she blurted. "We'll talk later."

The call ended with a sharp tap, but Evelyn found herself frozen in the hallway, phone clutched to her chest. She pressed her forehead against the cool wall and let out a frustrated groan.

Why had she asked him that ridiculous question last night?

What if she'd completely misread the situation? The thought of facing him now made her want to disappear.

"Evie."

Harrison's deep voice startled her so badly she nearly dropped her phone. He stood mere inches away, having approached without a sound.

"Y-yes?"

One dark eyebrow arched. "Your breakfast is getting cold. Unless you plan to be late for your meeting with Victor Langley?"

His completely normal tone made the knot in her stomach unravel instantly.

"Right. Of course."

She forced calm into her voice, even as something suspiciously like disappointment curled in her chest.

———

Kingsley Industries buzzed with its usual energy, but Evelyn moved through the day like she was underwater. Three separate times, Maxwell Donovan had to repeat himself before she registered his words.

"Ms. Carter?" His concerned gaze studied her face. "The car is ready. We should leave for Barnes Group now."

Evelyn blinked, then grabbed her blazer from the back of her chair. "Yes. Let's go."

They'd just reached the gleaming lobby of Barnes Group when fate decided to throw gasoline on her already chaotic day. Juliette Blackwood stood surrounded by her entourage, holding court like the queen of Pamore.

Their eyes locked, and the air between them crackled with unspoken challenges.

Juliette's red lips curved into a predatory smile as she sauntered over. "Evelyn Carter. How quaint—arriving with just one assistant." She flicked a dismissive glance at Maxwell. "Has Kingsley Industries fallen on such hard times?"

Evelyn didn't bat an eyelash. "Different philosophies, Juliette. Some of us prefer substance over spectacle."

Juliette's laugh was like shattering crystal. "With Landon Group's recent success, I've proven my designs surpass yours in every way. What exactly do you have left to compete with me?"

A slow, knowing smile spread across Evelyn's face. "Talent doesn't need neon signs to be seen. But do be careful—the higher you climb, the more painful the fall."