Chapter 426

"There's an exclusive industry gala tonight. Kingsley Industries is scouting for fresh ventures. Care to join me?"

Evelyn's face brightened instantly as she nodded in agreement.

"Absolutely. I've been stressing over our Q3 targets. This might be the perfect opportunity to secure new partnerships."

At precisely 7:00 PM, the grand chandeliers of The Regal Palace - Pamore's most prestigious venue - cast golden light over arriving guests.

The guest list read like a who's who of Pamore's elite. An invitation alone signaled one's standing among the city's power players. Naturally, Sterling Enterprises had received theirs.

After adjusting Nathan's tie, Simon spoke quietly. "Sir, Horizon Technologies is co-hosting tonight. Ms. Carter will likely attend."

Nathan's fingers froze mid-motion. His reflection stared back - immaculate in his Tom Ford tuxedo.

"Have the car brought around," he said finally, voice betraying nothing.

Simon masked his surprise. Not even a flicker of reaction at Evelyn's mention.

"Right away, Mr. Sterling."

In the hallway, Eleanor Blackwell appeared, draped in Chanel. Nathan's expression darkened.

"Mother. Where are you going?"

Eleanor beamed. "Juliette invited me to a soirée. One must maintain social connections, darling."

"Juliette?" Nathan's voice turned glacial. "Which Juliette?"

"Really, Nathan! Juliette Blackwood - the designer I wanted you to meet. Her spring collection just debuted in Milan."

A cruel smirk twisted Nathan's lips.

"Have you been living under a rock, Mother? That 'esteemed designer' was just exposed as a fraud."

Eleanor's smile shattered. "What nonsense is this?"

"Check your phone if you don't believe me." Nathan straightened his cuffs. "Stick to shopping. And stay away from that con artist."

Before Eleanor could respond, Juliette herself materialized - all calculated elegance in a blush pink Carolina Herrera gown.

"Mr. Sterling," she cooed, pretending not to overhear. "What a pleasure."

Nathan's glare could have frozen lava.

"Ms. Blackwood. This isn't your territory."

The warning hung between them like drawn steel.

Undeterred, Juliette linked arms with Eleanor.

"Now now, Mr. Sterling. Your mother and I have become quite close since Vanessa left. Someone should keep her company."

Her saccharine smile didn't reach her cold, calculating eyes.