Chapter 198

Melissa Lee came looking for Evelyn Sinclair the moment she took over the assignment.

"How's the Winston Strauss interview coming along?" Melissa asked casually.

Evelyn had anticipated this. "I've already transferred all relevant materials to Evelyn."

She knew exactly what Melissa wanted.

True to form, Melissa didn't press further, only offering a knowing smile.

As she walked away, her nails dug deep into her palms.

If Evelyn actually secured this interview, Julian Ashford must be pulling strings behind the scenes.

The thought made Melissa's eyes flash with malice.

Ever since Julian publicly humiliated her last time, she'd given up all hope.

But she'd make sure Evelyn paid dearly.

If that woman dared return, Melissa would make her regret it!

......

When Evelyn received the materials from Melissa, she noticed the meeting time had already been scheduled.

Winston Strauss would arrive early Sunday morning, and his assistant arranged a 10:30 AM meeting at the Regent Grand Hotel.

"Free for lunch this Sunday?"

That evening, Evelyn had just stepped out of the shower when Alexander Kingsley cornered her in the hallway.

"Why?"

Though they'd been living under the same roof, they'd barely spoken these past few days.

"I have a meeting at the Regent. Join me for lunch?" His gaze burned into her.

Evelyn frowned slightly. "No, thanks."

She turned and entered her room, missing the dark expression that instantly clouded his face.

Standing alone in the empty living room, Alexander felt the full weight of Evelyn's indifference for the first time.

She no longer saw him.

The realization tightened his chest.

......

The next morning, Evelyn ran into Madeline Kingsley just outside the residential complex.

"Come home with Grandma, dear," the elderly woman said with affection.

Evelyn's expression remained cold. "How did you know I was attending the summit?"

Mrs. Laurel, standing behind Madeline, quickly explained: "Mrs. Kingsley mentioned it last night—"

Evelyn had no patience for excuses and turned to leave.

"You can't go!" Madeline suddenly grew agitated. "Last year's summit had a pregnant woman trampled into miscarriage!"

Evelyn whirled around in shock.

Where did this absurd rumor come from?

"Come home with me!" Madeline signaled with her eyes.

Mrs. Laurel immediately seized Evelyn's arm.

"Let go!" Evelyn stomped hard on Mrs. Laurel's foot.

The maid yelped in pain and released her grip, allowing Evelyn to break free.

"Stop her!" Madeline barked.

Mrs. Laurel, still in pain, chased after Evelyn and grabbed her again.

Suddenly, Evelyn clutched her stomach and doubled over.

"Mrs. Laurel... why did you hit my stomach..." Her face went deathly pale, her voice trembling.