Chapter 376

"Mrs. Valentine's methods are utterly despicable. Evelyn may be an orphan, but she's earned her place through hard work. How dare she harass her at every turn?"

"It's strange. She never showed this much concern for her own daughter, yet she dotes excessively on her future daughter-in-law."

"You don't understand. A daughter will marry into another family, but a daughter-in-law must serve her for life."

The noblewomen huddled together, whispering behind their fans.

Margaret Valentine shifted uncomfortably, her face alternating between pale and flushed.

Eleanor Langley observed her from across the room, brows furrowed.

That night, she had witnessed Margaret's icy indifference toward her own flesh and blood.

Yet she treated Isabella with such warmth—it defied reason.

Eleanor studied the similarities between Margaret and Isabella's features. Her pupils constricted. Could it be...?

She dared not finish the thought. If her suspicions were correct, then Isabella and Adrian...

Once doubt took root, the urge to uncover the truth became unbearable.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Li had become the evening's laughingstock.

Several ladies who disliked her deliberately raised their voices.

"The Li family must be very proud, snubbing Sterling Manor's invitation. Their new pharmaceutical factory is a golden opportunity."

"Exactly. Aligning with Sterling Manor guarantees influence in the Nine-City Alliance. What game is the Li family playing?"

"Tsk. As one of the Four Great Families, they must consider such ventures beneath them. Especially when the head of Sterling Manor is... a woman."

"What's wrong with a woman? The young mistress of Sterling Manor is a legend in the business world. How dare the Lis look down on her? Though with their monopoly over Montreal Herbal Market, no wonder they're so arrogant."

Those in the know understood the source of the Li family's confidence.

Mr. Li's expression darkened at the remarks.

Isabella's plan had failed. A shadow flickered in her eyes.

Vincent Langley remained unperturbed. His sole objective tonight was securing Old Mr. Li's support.

He shadowed the elderly man, laying on the charm with practiced ease.

Adrian had vanished without notice.

Even Isabella hadn't registered his absence.

Outside the Imperial Palace Hotel, Sebastian Orlando received another urgent call. He sighed, turning to Evelyn. "Scarlett..."

Evelyn smiled faintly. "Go ahead, Sebastian. Zachary's here."

Sebastian nodded at Zachary. "Keep her safe."

Zachary responded gravely, "You have my word."

As Sebastian drove off, Evelyn turned to Nathan. "Head back and rest. You've got the international conference tomorrow."

Nathan, still exhilarated from verbally dismantling their detractors, grinned. "Will do. Don't stay up too late, boss."

She clapped his shoulder. "You've had a stellar year. Consider your salary doubled."

Nathan's eyes lit up—his wedding fund was secured!

Evelyn slid into the car, instructing Zachary, "To Dominic's place."

Zachary blinked. "Boss, did you say... where?"