Chapter 24

Adrian Valentine's gaze darkened like an abyss as he watched the retreating silhouette. His knuckles turned white from clenching his fists, suppressing the urge to chase after her.

The figure moved with the grace of a painting, yet carried an air of untouchable distance.

Isabella Langley's eyes flashed with venom when she heard Evelyn Roland's sharp accusation.

A cold smirk curled her lips.

Evelyn, you only have yourself to blame for being so naive.

And blame yourselves for being such a ridiculous couple.

So deeply in love, yet choosing the most childish ways to hurt each other.

"Adrian, let's go," she cooed, slipping her arm through his.

Adrian shook her off with icy disdain. "Know your place. Stay quiet and don't interfere." His voice was steel. "I'm letting your earlier behavior slide only because you once saved me."

Isabella stiffened.

She'd forgotten how fiercely his pride burned—especially when it came to his ex-wife.

"Adrian, I just wanted to help. Did you see how arrogant Evelyn was? She'd never agree to assist you." She lowered her head in feigned hurt.

That fire years ago—she'd merely taken credit for someone else's bravery.

The real savior had been Evelyn, the very woman she'd schemed against.

"Leave." Adrian's glare could freeze hell itself.

Sophia Blanchet emerged from the restroom, finding Evelyn gone but stumbling upon Adrian and Isabella instead.

Her pulse spiked.

Had her boss stormed off because of these two?

"Well, if it isn't Evelyn's little shadow," Isabella sneered.

Sophia halted, eyeing her with disdain. "Sweetheart, did you get hit by a door or just wake up stupid? Who even says 'little shadow' anymore?"

Isabella's face flushed with rage.

"Compared to my boss, you're not even fit to polish her shoes. And mark my words—I'll uncover every dirty secret you two hide." Sophia spun on her heel and strode away.

Isabella stomped her foot. "Adrian—"

"Enough." His patience was threadbare.

Evelyn had always despised these events.

Why show up tonight?

What else was she hiding?

"Adrian!" Julian Roscente sauntered over, champagne in hand. "Thought I saw your ex-wife earlier."

His white suit did little to mask his slouched posture.

"Isabella looks stunning tonight," he remarked absently, though his mind lingered on the glimpse he'd caught of Evelyn.

Divorce had made her breathtaking.