Chapter 74
“Wait! No!” Seeing that Evelyn didn’t counter the attacks, Lucian grew frantic. He rushed forward, his protective instincts kicking in.
“No matter how tragic Ms. Delacroix’s story sounds, it’s still one-sided. We should hear Ms. Sinclair’s version. There were no cameras—”
When Cassandra spotted Lucian, her mind went blank. Her lips parted slightly, as if her thoughts had scattered. Her usual sharpness evaporated instantly.
Evelyn’s gaze flicked to Lucian, quick but deliberate. That fleeting glance sent a jolt of warmth through him.
Their silent exchange didn’t escape Sebastian’s notice. His jaw tightened, fingers curling into fists.
“There were no witnesses. Just the two of us in the bathroom,” Evelyn said coolly.
Lucian sighed, rubbing his temple. “This is messy.”
“Who else could it be? My daughter wouldn’t hurt herself! Vanessa despises pain!” Seraphina shrieked.
Vanessa sobbed into Sebastian’s chest, but inwardly, she smirked.
“So, Evelyn,” Sebastian’s voice was ice. “Did you do it?”
Her heart plummeted. Tears burned behind her lashes, but she clenched her fists, swallowing the injustice.
Lucian groaned. For a CEO, his phrasing is atrocious.
The sight of Evelyn’s reddened eyes sent a pang through Sebastian. He’d been too harsh.
But the auction humiliation still stung. Bitterness twisted his words.
Evelyn inhaled sharply, then smiled. “Yes, I did. What now? Will you punish me?”
“Everything I do is for my family. Yet one tear from me, and Sebastian turns against you. My acting is worth more than your loyalty.”
Chin lifted, Evelyn strode to Vanessa—and slapped her. Hard.
Gasps filled the room.
Sebastian barely registered the movement before the sharp crack echoed.
“Ah! You—!” Vanessa clutched her cheek, vision swimming.
“You earned that,” Evelyn hissed, trembling with fury.
“Evelyn!” Sebastian roared.
He’d glimpsed her swollen wrist when she struck. Her delicate skin bruised easily.
But rage blinded him. He advanced, eyes blazing.
