Chapter 160

"Only those who match his caliber deserve to stand by his side," Diana remarked pointedly.

Evelyn caught the hidden meaning immediately.

She hadn't anticipated such boldness from an assistant. "Ms. Chamberlain, your dedication extends beyond professional boundaries," Evelyn countered coolly. "But perhaps you're overstepping your role concerning personal matters."

Diana blinked, unprepared for Evelyn's directness. There was no point in pretense now.

"Ms. Carter, I have Mr. Whitmore's best interests at heart. Surely you understand how... problematic certain pairings might appear to society."

She let the implication hang between them. "You might not care about gossip, but do you think Harrison would remain unaffected?"

The car door swung open just then, Harrison returning with their desserts.

He immediately sensed the tension. "Everything alright?" His concerned gaze settled on Evelyn.

Diana's words had struck deeper than Evelyn cared to admit.

Her family might encourage this match, but they hadn't considered Harrison's social standing. The fragile hope in her chest shattered instantly.

"Perfectly fine," Evelyn forced a smile. "Just passing the time."

Diana had expected tears or accusations. Instead, she got polished indifference. "Mr. Whitmore, Ms. Carter and I were getting acquainted. Perhaps we'll become good friends."

Harrison studied Evelyn. "Is that so?"

Evelyn's fingers tightened around her purse. "Shouldn't we head back? Beatrice must be waiting!"

With a final searching look, Harrison instructed Diana to drive to Lakeside Manor.

The tires crunched on the gravel driveway. Beatrice waited on the porch, arms outstretched. "Evelyn darling!"

Evelyn rushed into the embrace. "Aunt Beatrice! I've missed you terribly!"

The older woman's affection was palpable. "I found the most exquisite sapphire set at Cartier yesterday - it'll complement your eyes perfectly!"

"You spoil me!" Evelyn laughed.

"Nonsense," Beatrice chided, stroking her hair. Their bond could easily be mistaken for mother and daughter.

Meanwhile, Harrison stood forgotten. He cleared his throat pointedly.

Diana observed the scene with poorly concealed shock. All her earlier boasts about her rapport with Beatrice now rang hollow.

"Mrs. Whitmore!" Diana composed herself with effort.

Only then did Beatrice notice her. "Ms. Chamberlain? What brings you here?"

While Beatrice respected Diana's professional competence, the woman's striking beauty had always made her uneasy. Before Evelyn, it hadn't mattered.

But now? Beatrice's gaze turned calculating. Certain... arrangements would need to be made.