Chapter 163

Eleanor's dismissive tone cut through the tension. "Vanessa, darling, don't waste your energy worrying about Evelyn Carter's presence here. Focus on what truly matters - impressing Professor Whitaker."

Across the exhibition hall, Evelyn arrived on Harrison Whitmore's arm.

The striking couple turned heads instantly.

Harrison's commanding presence complemented Evelyn's effortless elegance perfectly.

While few recognized the reclusive tech mogul, whispers about Evelyn's scandalous divorce circulated through the crowd.

"That's the Kingsley heiress - divorced but clearly not suffering. Her new escort outshines Nathan Sterling in every way."

"Escort? That's Harrison Whitworth! CEO of Horizon Technologies!"

Gasps rippled through the gathering.

"No wonder they look so perfect together!"

"Evelyn Carter is living the dream - gorgeous, accomplished, and now with one of the most eligible bachelors in the country."

"Meanwhile, her ex-husband must be drowning in regret at Sterling Enterprises' recent failures."

Vanessa's face flushed crimson with rage.

"How dare you! My brother never regretted divorcing that gold-digging social climber!" she spat.

The crowd exchanged knowing glances.

"Oh look, it's little Vanessa Sterling. Aren't you the one begging Professor Whitaker to take you as his student?"

"Such high standards he has. I wonder if you'll measure up."

Vanessa's nails dug into her palms. "My academic pursuits are none of your concern! Mind your tongues before I have my lawyers silence them permanently."

The spectators remained unimpressed.

"We're simply stating facts, Ms. Sterling."

"Your family treated Evelyn horribly, blind to her true worth. Now the Kingsleys are dismantling your empire piece by piece."

"Hasn't Nathan mentioned how many contracts Sterling Enterprises has lost recently?"

"The mighty have truly fallen."

Vanessa froze. She'd been too preoccupied with her social calendar to notice business troubles. Nathan always handled everything.

What was happening?

"Shut your filthy mouths! You know nothing about my family!" she shrieked.

The crowd dispersed, their laughter trailing behind them as they flocked toward Evelyn's circle.

Evelyn stood at the center of attention, effortlessly charming every socialite and business magnate who approached.

Vanessa's chest tightened watching the scene.

Then she remembered Nathan's warning - no more confrontations with Evelyn.

"Vanessa?" Eleanor's voice snapped her from her thoughts.