Chapter 195

"She's untouchable. Ordinary methods won't work on her." Vanessa Sterling clenched her fists, resisting the urge to confront Evelyn Carter directly. If Nathan Sterling discovered her involvement, she'd be exiled from Sterling Enterprises permanently.

But Victoria Sinclair had vengeance burning in her eyes.

"That woman ruined my career," Victoria hissed, swirling her martini. "Because of her, I'm unemployed, drowning my sorrows in dive bars. Doesn't that make your blood boil?"

Vanessa nodded absently, keeping her expression neutral. She wouldn't be dragged into Victoria's personal vendetta.

"If you despise her so much," Vanessa countered, "why don't you handle it yourself?"

A slow, venomous smile spread across Victoria's face. "You hate her too, don't you?"

Vanessa's grip tightened around her glass. "Even if I did, there's nothing I can do. Some battles aren't worth fighting."

Victoria scoffed. "What happened to the fearless Vanessa Sterling? Did that secretary break your spirit?"

The barb struck deep. Countless humiliations flashed through Vanessa's mind—every time Evelyn had outmaneuvered her. The resentment simmered beneath her polished exterior.

Why did Evelyn always emerge unscathed? The temptation to retaliate was intoxicating.

But Vanessa wasn't reckless. She recognized Evelyn's newfound influence. Any misstep could backfire spectacularly.

"Mock me all you want," Vanessa retorted. "If you're so confident, prove it."

Victoria's eyes gleamed with predatory intent. "Alone, we might fail. But together?" She leaned closer. "Imagine seeing Evelyn Carter brought to her knees. Begging."

The image sent a thrill down Vanessa's spine.

"What's your plan?"

Victoria smirked and produced a small sachet from her clutch. "A little... persuasion powder."

Vanessa recoiled. "Are you insane? That's—"

"—perfect," Victoria finished. "One sip, and she'll be utterly compliant."

The bar's neon lights reflected in Vanessa's wide eyes. This crossed every line. Evelyn wasn't just some employee anymore—she had Nathan's protection. The Sterlings couldn't afford another scandal.

"Count me out." Vanessa stood abruptly. "I won't risk everything for your petty revenge."

Victoria's smile turned icy. "Petty? She destroyed Isabella Delaney. Your own cousin rots in prison because of her."

The reminder stung. Vanessa had avoided visiting Isabella, too ashamed to face her failure.

Victoria pressed her advantage. "Picture it—Evelyn's reputation in tatters. Nathan would finally see her for the schemer she is."

Vanessa hesitated, the fantasy seductive.

Then reality crashed back. "If this backfires—"

"It won't." Victoria signaled a waiter. "Trust me, by dawn, Evelyn Carter will wish she'd never crossed us."

The waiter approached. Victoria whispered instructions, her gaze locked on Evelyn across the room.

Vanessa's pulse raced. This was madness.

Yet as she watched Evelyn laugh with friends, oblivious to the storm approaching, a dark thought took root:

Maybe some lessons needed to be taught the hard way.